Summer vacations in the United States have never been better. It’s time to start thinking about your summer trip as the warmer (or a long weekend getaway). You’ll love this list of the greatest summer vacations in America if you don’t want to travel overseas!
Summer is a great time to visit the United States, and this article lists the finest spots to go. If you haven’t already, put them on your American bucket list. Undoubtedly, you’ll find a vacation that suits your tastes here, no matter what sort of traveler you are or what budget you have.
You’ll find everything you need here, from mountain ranges to beaches, national parks to sightseeing tours, etc. It will be difficult to choose just one.
- Kauai, Hawaii
Visiting the Hawaiian Islands is a great idea if you enjoy swaying palm palms, beautiful sandy shorelines, and sea breezes. You can still enjoy the Garden Island’s natural beauty during the summer months. It’s not only one of the greatest US vacation locations, but it’s also a great place to have a romantic trip in the USA. Located in the far north of the Hawaiian island, Kauai is home to varied scenery that ranges from lush tropical rainforests and towering waterfall to deep gorges painted with red and green. Located in the northwest of Oahu, the Na Pali Coast provides beautiful hikes along the rocky beach. Beaches like Hanalei Bay and Poipu, which have a lot of sand, are great places to sprawl out and enjoy under the sun. At this time of year, the water is calm and more conducive to activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and splashing in the waves on warm afternoons that reach the mid-80s.
- Utah
The region of Utah is one of the greatest vacation locations in the United States if you enjoy the outdoors, and it’s also a fantastic spring break spot. After a five-hour journey from southern Utah, you may experience colder weather encircled by pine trees as well as alpine lakes in the northern part of the region. It has everything. While it may get unbearably hot here in the summer, with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s still the best summer destination. Several national parks, national monuments, recreation areas, state parks, and other hiking trails are all near together, making it a great place to spend a summer vacation in the United States. However, even if you’re not a hiker, the landscape is worth seeing. It’s almost surreal at times. Also, the scenic drives between parks can’t be surpassed. When it comes to experiencing the desert for the first time, this is a great place to start. Bryce Canyon is a must-see, as is Arches, where you may run with the goblins, and Zion is awe-inspiring.
- Oregon
The state of Oregon has a lot to offer, but staying in a historic fire lookout tower is a genuinely unique experience. As recently as a few decades ago, Oregon had the most fire lookouts of any other state. By renting them to anybody who wants to experience living in a glass home, the Forest Service has created a whole new type of vacation experience! In Oregon, at least 18 observation towers are available for hire. There are many types of lookouts, some of which are mounted on stilts 20-40 feet in the air. Others are on the ground but at the top of a mountain crest. Four large windows surround each lookout, providing unobstructed views in every direction. After your first night on a lookout, you’ll never forget the experience, putting it among the greatest summer vacation places in the U.S.
- Acadia National Park, Maine
Summer is a great time to visit Acadia National Park in Maine, the United States. Everything about it is perfect: the cuisine, the weather, and the atmosphere. What about the treks in Acadia? The Bar Harbor Grand Hotel, located in the beautiful town of Bar Harbor, is one of the greatest locations to stay in Acadia National Park. In Acadia National Park, eating shellfish is a must. Lobster rolls are a must-have at any restaurant in Acadia. You should try everything with blueberries as their specialty. Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Acadia. Great hiking paths abound throughout the National Park. It’s called the Precipice Trail. It’s a favorite because of the scrambling and climbing up the mountain. Even though it is difficult for the faint of heart, the walk is unique and enjoyable. Summertime is a fantastic time to visit Acadia National Park. This means that it might be difficult to locate somewhere to stay and places to eat in the autumn, winter, or spring.
- Santa Catalina Island, California
Located just off the coast of California, Santa Catalina Island is a famous tourist destination that can be reached in about 45 minutes by boat. Avalon and Two-Harbors are the two main settlements on the island. Avalon is by far the most popular destination for tourists, and many people choose to stay here for the whole of their trip. It’s not uncommon for individuals to spend their weekends on Catalina Island lounging on the beach, shopping in Avalon, and dining out at one of Catalina Island’s numerous local restaurants.
- Portland, Maine
Despite its popularity, Portland, Maine, does not receive the credit it deserves as a top summer vacation destination in America. In fact, Portland has become one of those classic coastal cities that will keep you feeling nostalgic even if it’s your first visit. New York City is a six-hour drive away. This makes it an ideal destination for people in the northeast who want a fast yet memorable summer holiday.
- Jekyll Island, Georgia
Jekyll Island, Georgia, is one of the greatest summer vacation spots in the United States because of its calm beaches, beautiful landscape, and Southern charm. Jekyll Island, in contrast to many other beach locations in the Southeast, has remained largely undeveloped and un-commercialized. Driftwood Beach is a must-see on any vacation to Jekyll Island. It’s not just the beach that’s being worn down by the water; it’s also left a graveyard of dead trees. A hauntingly lovely landscape emerges. Sunsets and sunrises at Driftwood Beach are spectacular. Consider taking a snapshot every 3 seconds using your digital camera.
8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the greatest places to visit in the summer in the United States. While driving into the park, you’ll see snow-covered mountains, some of which are over 12,000 feet tall. A world of wonder and adventure awaits you on the inside with its meandering roads and trails (more than 300 miles in all), ancient pinewoods, animals, wildflowers, lakes, and vistas that stretch for miles in every direction! Look into the distance and see subalpine and alpine terrains from Trail Ridge Road, which stretches for kilometers above 12,000 feet and crosses the Continental Divide. Instead, look for the two massive herds of elk in the lower meadowlands. Just keep your distance and don’t go too near! Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures.
- Block Island, Rhode Island
Located in Rhode Island, Block Island is a tiny island with a There are lovely beaches that are not overcrowded, making it the perfect summer getaway. Several of the beaches are great for clamming or fishing, while others are perfect for Fishing charters are available for serious anglers. There are also several hiking and bike routes. On Block Island, hundreds of glass balls have been buried in random locations as part of the Glass Float Project. Two historic lighthouses are located here, as well as cliffs that offer spectacular vistas. Block Island also offers several interesting gift stores. Evenings will be filled with pubs and restaurants to choose from. If you enjoy lobster, you’re in luck because it’s quite inexpensive! Right in the heart of town, you’ll find the National Hotel. Also on the National Register of Historic Buildings, it features a great restaurant called The Tap & Grille.
- New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans must be included on any list of the greatest summer vacation locations in the United States. People, sights, and sounds in New Orleans are unique to the United States, if not the globe. No doubt about it, New Orleans is going to steal your heart. Explore the ancient French Quarter with its wrought-iron balconies that overlook the gas-lit streets below. Before traveling to Café du Monde for beignets and café au lait, explore the art galleries and antique shops on Royal. Afterward, go down the Mississippi Riverfront and check out one of New Orleans’ vintage steamboats. Enjoy the music scene at Preservation Hall or one of the numerous clubs on Frenchmen Street.
- Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park in California is one of the most famous national parks in the United States. Every year, thousands of tourists come to Yosemite Valley to witness the stunning, glacially created, towering granite cliffs that define the valley’s entrance and are part of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Summer is the ideal season to visit Yosemite since the roads and most trails should be open, the campgrounds will be busy, and Yosemite town will be in full gear.
- Fire Island, New York
Fire Island, New York, is a 32-mile-long barrier island off the south shore of Long Island in the southern portion of New York State. Fire Island is a great day trip destination for me, but many others make it their summer holiday destination. Ferries are the only way to get to Fire They leave from Bay Shore (to the lighthouse and nine of the western settlements) and Sayville, among other places (which will take you to the three eastern towns). For this reason, you’ll find most individuals boarding the boat with beach carts or wagons loaded with groceries. Walking, biking, or using a water taxi is all options while on the island.
13. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is the place to go if you want to get away from the crowds and cities this summer. It’s only 50 miles from Washington, D.C., so it’s a great place to escape the rush and bustle of the city. Family vacationers, couples, and solitary visitors will all enjoy its protected wildness of over 200,000 acres. A vacation to Virginia in the summer is ideal because wildflowers are in full bloom and the beautiful, green countryside that Virginia is known for is on show. Skyline Drive is Shenandoah’s biggest attraction. The National Scenic Byway runs along the Blue Ridge crest for 100 miles between Front Royal and Rockfish Gap, where it links to the Blue Ridge Parkway. On the east side, the beautiful rolling hills of Virginia’s Piedmont region are seen, while the Shenandoah Valley is visible on the west. Most people go there around autumn when leaves are changing, so July is a great time to visit when there are fewer people around.
14. Assateague Island, Maryland & Virginia
It’s probably fair to say that Assateague Island is one of the top destinations to visit. Maryland and Virginia border it, making it easily accessible to many, especially those traveling from Washington, DC, or elsewhere along the East Coast. Pony Swim is a summertime tradition that takes them all from their island home on the mainland, where they may enjoy a warm welcome as summer In person, it’s a wonderful experience. On your visit, be sure to swim on the gorgeous beach, go on a nice bike ride across the marsh to see ponies or lighthouse homes, or simply enjoy the local cuisine.
- Cape Cod, Massachusetts
While it appears to be a finger pointed in the direction of “come here,” it’s actually a getaway from the hustle and bustle of Boston and other parts of Massachusetts. These two bridges are icons that take you to a holiday paradise filled with sea breezes, sunsets, and beaches where the water will never be warm enough to swim peacefully. This quaint town is home to attractive homes with cedar shingles, pleasant stores where you can shop locally, and wonderful eateries with creative but clichéd names like Crepe Cod.
- Buffalo, NY
In Buffalo, the winters are harsh. Because of Lake Erie, which is responsible for Buffalo’s snow problems, Buffalo is great summer vacation. Take a picnic and go for a swim in the summer at one of the many sandy beaches around Lake Erie (such as Woodlawn Beach State Park). If you’re going to visit Buffalo’s beautiful architecture, summer is the ideal time to do so Affluence in Buffalo peaked in the early 1900s. Numerous downtown Buffalo buildings were constructed in the Art Deco style during this time period. Erie Canal terminates at Buffalo, which served as a center for shipping commodities across Great Lakes. The Buffalo River is dotted with massive grain elevators. Embark on a Buffalo River History Tour to learn about the Queen City’s rise and collapse. In Buffalo’s renovated downtown district, Canalside is another great summer attraction. While strolling along the Buffalo River, you may enjoy the refreshing lake breezes.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico
Autumn is a popular time to visit Santa Fe. The weather is crisp and the famed Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque is close. When to Come to Santa Fe: The greatest time to visit is in the summer since it is during this period that you may see the world-famous Santa Fe Opera. In the middle of the desert, acoustically perfect, this opera is located outside. Although the music is fantastic, you may also enjoy a desert sunset while watching the show! Meow Wolf, an immersive art experience created with the aid of Game of Thrones creator George R.R. Martin, will appeal to avant-garde enthusiasts. Another must-try is the New Mexican food, which is filled with fresh local green chilies.
- San Francisco, California
Fun, cuisine, and adventure abound in San Francisco during the summer. There will be more street fairs, kayaking and boating around the Bay will be more enjoyable, music festivals will begin, and you may take advantage of the various trekking options. Visit the Golden Gate Bridge, and if you’re feeling adventurous, ride a bike across it to Sausalito. Take in the view of the houseboats floating on the harbor and indulge in ice cream at Lappert’s.
- Anchorage, Alaska
You might imagine dog sledding, ice fishing, and a lot of snow when you think about Alaska. In the summer, Alaska is equally as beautiful and enjoyable. Camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities abound in this city in the far north of the country. As Alaska’s Land of the Midnight Sun, the sun never sets in Anchorage throughout the summer. As far as I can tell, it never gets So much sun causes plants to grow quickly and big. Beautiful gardens may be seen around Anchorage. As well as animal viewing, you can hire a bike and explore the various trails around Anchorage or watch the little prop seaplanes take off and land on Lake Hood. Alaska Native Heritage Center, Anchorage Museum, Fish Creek, Alaska Railroad, and reindeer sausage are just a few of the city’s highlights. Visit Anchorage this summer if you’re looking for beauty and adventure.
- Sonoma County, California
Sonoma County is a must-see on your summer destination bucket checklist. There are several places to swim or canoe along the Russian River, which passes through this valley. These vistas will take your breath away with the surrounding vineyards and redwood forests. If you need a break from the sun, Armstrong Redwoods State Park provides easy walking routes amid the beautiful trees. The county is filled with wineries. Enjoy wine tastings in the Dry Creek Valley, or drive through Kenwood and compare the wine selections offered in one of their beautiful picnic sites.
- Newport, Rhode Island
In Rhode Island’s Narragansett Bay, there is a small hidden treasure named Newport. Natural, cultural, and gastronomic treasures all converge in this unassuming town, which is connected by picturesque bike paths. Pick your own berries and peaches at Sweet Berry Farm in the morning for the ideal summer picnic. Newport Cliff Walk, a 3,5-mile National Recreation Trail that runs along the town’s dramatic cliffs, is a great place to explore with the sea wind invigorating you. The Breakers, the Elms, and Rosecliff Mansion are just a few of the sumptuous Gilded Age homes that border the shore. Make sure to take your time and explore the beautiful gardens. Enjoy your late lunch at Gooseberry Beach or a nearby picnic area overlooking the ocean. Seafood is a major part of Newport’s history and culture.
22. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is a great summer vacation spot in the United States for history enthusiasts as well as foodies. Independence Hall, the United States flag’s birthplace, and the Declaration of Independence are all located here. What’s more, Philadelphia has no poor quality food. Spend a day at Eastern State Penitentiary and the museums along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway! You can tour all the major historical buildings, as well as enjoy the nightlife and superb dining, in only two days in Philadelphia. Drinks with views are available at SkyGarten Downtown and the Book Bar in South Philly, an old high school bar that is open all summer.
- Tucson
If you’re in the mood for a decent trek in the evening, Mount Lemmon is the perfect spot to go. You’ll discover calming brooks at the base of the mountain to rest in afterward. In the summertime, Tucson is one of the greatest places to go in the United States. Make use of the renowned patio eating alternatives here, where you may relax with your buddies despite the high heat during daylight hours.
24. Glacier National Park, Montana
A visit to Glacier National Park in the summertime is a must. Due to the park’s considerable elevation, it’s best to come in the summer. Huckleberry is the finest meal to eat in Glacier National Park. There are huckleberry pies, ice creams, pancakes, and salads at all of the restaurants. So much so that you can even get them at the fruit stands. Take a trip on the “Going to the Sun Road.” In general, the road opens towards the end of June or the beginning of July each year. Among the most beautiful highways in America, this one is no exception. Along the route, there are several scenic viewpoints and great hiking trails. Driven cautiously, though, you will be OK on the road. It’s also fun to take a boat excursion on one of the area’s lakes. It’s easy to see why. On the way, you’ll take two boat trips and end up at Grinnell Lake, a popular hiking destination.
- Florida
When people think of Florida, they generally think of the beaches or Disney World. Many of the unique outdoor and nature-based activities in Florida, however, go unnoticed. When it comes to nature tourism, there are plenty of options in “The Real Florida.” Florida’s enormous array of natural springs is perhaps the crown gem. Considering Florida’s location, it should come as no surprise that the water table is quite high. Natural springs and sinkholes are abundant throughout the state because of this, as well as the presence of limestone deposits. Approximately 700 natural springs may be found throughout Florida. So, no matter where you’re going on vacation, you’ll be able to find a natural spring within an hour or two of your location. They may be categorized into two major types: spring-only, which is akin to a swimming hole, and river-side springs. It’s always a blast to tube or kayak in the spring that’s located near a river.
- Detroit, Michigan
If you’re planning a summer vacation in the U.S., you probably aren’t thinking about Detroit, Michigan as your first choice. Recently, the city has received a terrible image, especially after declaring bankruptcy in 2013. Detroit, on the other hand, has a lot to offer the discriminating and adventurous tourist. The ideal time to visit is in the summer. Detroit’s magnificent architecture and its river are two of the best reasons to visit, and both are more enjoyable in warm weather. Residents in the Detroit area go to Belle Isle, an island park in the Detroit River when the weather is nice. From downtown Detroit, you may take the picturesque 5.5-mile Riverfront stroll to get there. In the Nature Center on Belle Isle, it’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of a large city. Anyone interested in Art Deco architecture should check out the magnificent green Guardian Building, sometimes known as The Cathedral of Finance. Visit the Motown Museum to discover where icons like Smokey Robinson and Stevie Wonder recorded their songs.
- Fort Worth, Texas
Fort Worth, a short drive from Dallas, is a great place to spend a summer vacation if you’re searching for something different. There’s something about Fort Worth’s combination of cowboy tradition and modernity that’s likely to make you fall in love with it. Aside from a rise in temperature in summer, enjoyment also increases! First and foremost, we need to locate you a great place to stay while you’re in Fort Worth. We recommend lodging around Sundance Square. Located in downtown Fort Worth, Sundance Square is a 35-block area full of restaurants, shops, bars, and other entertainment facilities. A great spot to call home while your vacation because it is conveniently accessible and near public transit. Staying at the Worthington Renaissance Hotel or Omni in Sundance Square is one of our favorites. For breakfast in Sundance Square, stop by Yold, then walk on over to Del Frisco’s Grill for dinner and drinks later in the day.
28. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
There are spectacular mountain views, stunning treks, and difficult mountain summits in the Grand Teton National Park. This park, located just outside of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, features spectacular mountain beauty that is easily accessible for people of all ages and abilities It is impossible to visit Grand Teton National Park without visiting Mormon Row. View the classic homesteading barn with a backdrop of the mountain range in this stunning photo. Jenny Lake is the place to go for picture-perfect dawn. Moderate to experienced hikers should check either Cascade Canyon or Garnet Canyon to reach the saddle between the Middle and Grand Teton. It’s worth acquiring a permit for Paintbrush Canyon or hiking the Teton Crest Trail, which covers 25.7 miles of the park. There is a 13770-foot-high mountain in Wyoming that requires ropes to get to the top if you are an experienced climber.
