Summer destinations across the U.S are abundant. From beachy and tropical coastal spots to national parks filled with wilderness, you name it, and there’s a destination waiting for your arrival.
However, you are bound to be confused with so many different places, cities, towns, and destinations to explore. The good news is that the diverse landscape of the U.S ensures that there’s a perfect summer getaway for every traveller.
So, if you are currently planning your next summer holiday destination, this detailed guide will take you through the top summer destinations in the USA.
1. Finger Lakes, New York State
- Things to do: Wine tasting, water activities like boating and kayaking, hiking, cultural stops at historic spots and museums.
- Best time to visit: June to August
Relaxing along the lake, soaking in the beautiful views of sunset, and exploring the historical and cultural backstories, the Finger Lakes in New York State is the perfect spot for your next summer vacation. The combination of deep glacial lakes, rolling hills, sprawling vineyards, and historic small towns truly adds to the fascination of this destination. Eleven long and narrow lakes form the shape of a “finger”, from which the place derives its name. Beyond water activities, you can go on wine tours or visit iconic spots like the Corning Museum of Glass and the historic Mark Twain Study in Elmira.
2. Mackinac Island, Michigan
- Things to do: Take a road trip on a bike or carriage, try handmade fudge, hike, or explore Fort Mackinac.
- Best time to visit: May to September
If you are on the lookout for an offbeat destination in the U.S to explore this summer, Mackinac Island in Michigan is a great option. This is a “car-free” island where you feel you have returned in time. There are bikes you can rent out to explore the island, or you can feel like you are in the Victorian era by travelling in carriages. There are horse-drawn carriages and historical forts, which add to the charm of this place. You can also explore the hiking trails in Mackinac Island State Park.
Before you head out, make sure to read this helpful road trip weather check guide to stay safe and prepared on your journey.
3. Fairbanks, Alaska
- Things to do: Riverboat discovery tour, soak in hot springs, gold mining, and explore Denali National Park.
- Best time to visit: June to August
While Fairbanks is renowned as a popular winter destination in the U.S due to the northern lights, it is equally (if not more) beautiful during the summer months. If you want to witness the “midnight sun,” consider visiting during the summer when daylight lasts 24 hours. There are a lot of unique activities to do in Fairbanks, but nothing beats the Riverboat Discovery tour through the Chena River, enabling you to learn about the native culture. You can also take a day trip to the Denali National Park to spot grizzly bears, moose, and caribou.
4. Bar Harbor, Maine
- Things to do: Hiking, whale watching, downtown exploration, sea kayaking.
- Best time to visit: June to September
Bar Harbor in Maine is another offbeat and less crowded destination in the U.S to visit during the summer months. It is located on Mount Desert Island and is renowned for its dramatic coastline, cozy bed and breakfasts, and the iconic Acadia National Park. The temperatures are mild in the summer, making it great for exploration. You can hike Cadillac Mountain or enjoy Jordan Pond. For the sea and marine lovers, head to Frenchman Bay for a whale watching extravaganza. Also, the downtown area in Bar Harbor is a shopping enthusiast’s dream come true.
5. Glacier National Park, Montana
- Things to do: Drive through Going to the Sun Road, hiking, a boat tour, and spot wildlife.
- Best time to visit: June to September
Often called the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park in Montana is one of the most popular getaway destinations in the U.S. The national park has over 700 miles of trails and alpine lakes, which make it an adventurer’s dream destination. One of the first things you need to do is drive through the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, followed by hiking the Highline Trail. If you want a more laid-back experience, book a boat tour on Lake McDonald and spot wildlife along the way.
6. Door County, Wisconsin
- Things to do: Kayaking, sailing, cherry picking, lighthouse exploration, live theatre experience.
- Best time to visit: June to August
For a fun yet laid-back experience during the summer months in the U.S, consider visiting Door County in Wisconsin. It is located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan and has 300 miles of shoreline and maritime heritage. This peaceful retreat offers many activities, including kayaking, sailing, lighthouse exploration, etc. If you visit in July during peak cherry harvest season, you can go cherry picking too. Also, plan a theatre experience at Peninsula Players Theatre during the evening.
7. Yachats, Oregon
- Things to do: Hiking, tidepooling, exploring local art galleries, whale watching
- Best time to visit: July to August
If you are looking for a destination in the U.S that offers a bit of everything – adventure, culture, and exploration, Yachats in Oregon is great. The place is pronounced “YAH-hots” and is a small town with very little tourist engagement, so you get to step away from the chaos of city life. There are scenic ocean cliffs and lush forests, making it great for hikes, exploration, and adventure. You can head to Yachats State Park for a tidepooling experience or head to the town centre to explore the local art galleries.
8. Cannon Beach, Oregon
- Things to do: Beach walks, hiking, exploring boutiques and galleries, attending contests.
- Best time to visit: June to September
While we are already in Oregon, Cannon Beach is another popular summer destination that you must consider adding to your itinerary. The beach is predominantly known for its iconic Haystack Rock and expansive sandy shores, making it a paradise for beach lovers. If you are visiting in June, ensure to attend the Sandcastle Contest. You can experience a tidepooling experience near Haystack Rock, or plan a hike through Ecola State Park. Also, explore the boutiques and galleries while in town to take home souvenirs.
Curious about extreme summer heat? Take a look at the hottest cities in the US and see where temperatures soar the most.
9. Hilton Head, South Carolina
- Things to do: Beach exploration, biking, golfing, dolphin cruises
- Best time to visit: May to June
Another coastal getaway destination in the U.S to explore during the summer months is Hilton Head, which is located in South Carolina. The island offers 12 miles of beaches to explore and get lost in. Beyond the coastal fun and adventure, the island is home to numerous golf courses and prioritizes eco-tourism, which is quite impressive. You can explore the popular beaches like Coligny Beach Park or Burke’s Beach, or rent a bike to explore the surroundings. Also, dolphin cruises for spotting bottlenose dolphins are popular there.
10. Half Moon Bay, California
- Things to do: Coastal hiking, beach exploration, exploring farmer’s markets, horseback riding
- Best time to visit: June to September
Located in the southern part of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is perfect for a laid-back summer vacation. The blend of summer wildflowers, relaxing beach views and the dramatic cliffs truly make this destination feel like it’s straight out of a movie. If you want a quick escape from the city and go for coastal hiking, head to the California Coastal Trail or the Purisima Creek Redwoods. You can also visit local farmers’ markets to pick up local produce.
Final Words
Summer months in the U.S. bring a variety of experiences. There are hiking trails through dense forests for adventurers and laid-back beach exploration for chill visitors. Whether you are travelling alone, with your partner, or with your family, there is a destination that will cater to every traveller’s interest. This curated list has the top 10 destinations, which are slightly offbeat but equally popular among tourists and locals.
