places to visit this summer

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

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: June 11, 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.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

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:

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

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

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.

You May Also Like

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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19 Best Places to Visit in Summer

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated May 4, 2023

Planning a summer vacation is exciting, but the options are endless, so it is important to apply certain criteria to your search. Some summer holiday destinations are seasonal, and they will attract the most tourists in June, July, and August, but these are also when all the attractions are open in these destinations.

In places like Whistler, Canada, which has many mountains, or a destination like Iceland, which has a brutal winter season, summer is the perfect time to visit because roads and trails will be open for you to fully experience what these places have to offer. Our best summer destinations are based on a variety of factors, including the best weather and timing for attractions.

Plan your next vacation with our list of the best places to visit in summer.

1. Grand Canyon, Arizona

2. rome, italy, 3. whistler, canada, 4. san diego, california, 5. nova scotia, canada, 6. maldives, 7. zermatt, switzerland, 9. seattle, washington, 10. marseille, france, 11. anchorage, alaska, 12. amalfi coast, italy, 13. edinburgh, scotland, 14. chicago, illinois, 15. machu picchu, peru, 16. aspen, colorado, 17. sardinia, italy, 18. budapest, hungary, 19. london, england, map of places to visit in summer.

Highlight: Incredibly views over one of the top attractions in America

August is one of the best times to visit the Grand Canyon. While it's the most crowded time at the Grand Canyon, there are so many ways to experience it during the high season. The casual tourist can ride tour shuttles around the park, take brief hikes on the rim trails , or just relax by the Grand Canyon Village.

Fit visitors can tackle a section of Bright Angel Trail to experience hiking into the canyon. Extreme outdoor adventurers can spend a summer trip to the Grand Canyon tackling the hike of a lifetime, going down into the canyon from the North Rim, spending the night at Phantom Ranch, then hiking up to the South Rim the next day. This is one of the best and most intense ways to experience one of the greatest natural wonders of the world .

You can also take the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona to the Grand Canyon, which is a nice way to see the landscape. During the crowded summer season, you will want to book far in advance for lodging and transportation.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions at the Grand Canyon

Highlight: Many types of tours to accommodate your top places to visit, but book early

Since many of the best attractions in Rome are outdoors, a visit in the summer puts you in the city at a prime time. Tours to famous ancient sites like the Colosseum and the Pantheon are plentiful, but you will still want to book tickets ahead of time. Rome is an easy city to see on your own, with many museums and palaces in close proximity. Pleasant summer weather makes it a fun place to explore on foot to experience new food or toss a coin into Trevi Fountain.

Plan the outside attractions first and save the museum visits in case there is a day of inclement weather. The summer season in Rome is popular for tourists, so plan extra time in the itinerary to accommodate lines during sightseeing, and book hotels at least six to eight months in advance.

Highlight: Summer bobsleigh experiences at the home of the 2010 Winter Olympics venue

The mountains of Whistler, Canada are ideal for a winter ski vacation , but the summertime means more moderate temperatures and other types of outdoor experiences like hiking in the mountains and wildlife tours. Skiers can still hit Blackcomb Mountain even in the summer months, without the heavy winter gear.

During the summer, Whistler opens up water sports at Lost Lake Park . The 525-acre park has hiking trails, and kayaks or paddleboards available for rent.

Nature parks like Brandywine Falls Provincial Park or the Valley Trail that you can get to from Whistler Village are ideal for hiking during the warmer months.

For a taste of the Winter Olympics, you can hit the bobsled tracks at the Whistler Sliding Centre, where you can sled down a 4,757-foot curvy track at 78 miles per hour for about half the cost of doing it during the winter months.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Whistler

Highlights: Beaches, gardens, festivals, Balboa Park, cultural experiences, outdoor recreation

San Diego is one of those blessed cities that has beautifully consistent weather all year long and is always bustling with activity, but the summer is an especially fun time to visit this California city. With 70 miles of coastline, a beach is never far away. Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and Coronado Beach are three of the top beaches to visit .

Summer in San Diego also means festivals and music in the city, so it is a vibrant time to visit, with something always happening in the local neighborhoods. There are also major attractions like Balboa Park, which has museums, gardens, bike trails, 1,200 acres of cultural experiences, restaurants, and the famous San Diego Zoo . Summer in the city is popular, so plan on higher rates at hotels and resorts in the area.

• Top-Rated Outdoor Adventures in San Diego
• San Diego with Kids: Top Things to Do

Highlights: Outdoor activities on the peninsula including kayaking and hiking, scenic views, and festivals

Travel to Canada in the summer is always nice but it is an especially lovely time to travel to Nova Scotia. The peninsula is an outdoor lover's haven, with water activities like kayaking, rafting, and whale watching. Summer hiking gives you full access to trails at Cape Breton Highlands National Park , the Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail on the Bay of Fundy, and other trails with a seascape backdrop.

Flights to Nova Scotia pick up in June, so getting to the province is easier in the summertime. There are many festivals during June, July, and August, and these are ideal months to see the true culture of the region, with music and local events that celebrate Nova Scotia's heritage.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nova Scotia
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Cape Breton Island

Highlights: Multiple islands in the Indian Ocean region to explore in one visit

The islands of the Maldives are best experienced in the summertime when they have dry weather. There are nearly 1,200 islands along the Maldives archipelago, so there are many options for a tropical summer vacation and lodging in one of the region's famous overwater bungalows . The draw of the islands are the deep blue seas, water sports, beautiful coral reefs, and tropical beaches.

The summer weather, with warm and dry conditions, enables you to spend the most time out exploring the islands and the Indian Ocean waters. The islands are surrounded by reefs, so the pleasant weather days make it nice to spend time in the water to see some of the spectacular reefs and aquatic life.

Accommodation: Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Maldives

• Read More: Most Beautiful Islands in the World

Highlights: Hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking in the Swiss mountains

Summertime in Zermatt, Switzerland is flush with color. It is when the snowcapped mountains are accented with lush, green meadows and a mesmerizing blue color in the lakes. Zermatt sits at the base of the Matterhorn peak.

The summer temperatures and climate enable mountain adventures beyond just skiing . Visiting during June, July, and August allows for other outdoor recreation, from hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and swimming. There are many tour companies in Zermatt that focus on various adventures, so even beginners can feel comfortable hiking in the Swiss mountains.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Zermatt

Highlights: Relaxing in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon

Warmer temperatures and not having to worry about brutal winter weather are two of the biggest reasons to visit Iceland in the summer. The winter months are great for attempting to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis since there are long, dark, cold nights but many roads are closed because of inaccessibility, and many attractions close as well.

The summer months have drier conditions making it easy to access hiking trails throughout the island. There are small festivals in Iceland during summer, and it is the best time for whale watching and visiting the cities throughout Iceland like Reykjavik .

Since summer is also the season for the midnight sun, you will have many hours of daylight to experience the best that Iceland has to offer including jaw-dropping waterfalls , the Blue Lagoon and Glacial Lagoon.

• Read More: Iceland Road Trip: Driving the Ring Road

Highlights: A walkable city center and many nearby trails to enjoy the outdoor scenery

The city of Seattle is known for two things: great coffee and gloomy weather. The summer is high tourist season in this low-key city, so hotel rates are higher but it is a great time to visit. July and August are the months with the lowest amount of rainfall, so enjoying the outdoor festivals and parks will be comfortable, although you will still want to take a light jacket for evenings. Summer is a nice time weather-wise to enjoy some of the nearby hiking trails near Seattle , including those on Mount Rainier.

Since summer is a busy time for tourists, you will want to plan extra time to see attractions like the Space Needle , but the upside is that skies should be clear during these months for a great view of the city. Clear skies also mean that walking around the city, versus hopping on local transportation, makes it easier to see the Pike Place Market and the Olympic Sculpture Park.

• Top-Rated Hikes near Seattle
• Top-Rated Beaches in the Seattle Area

Highlights: The Old Port area with waterfront dining, luxury hotels, and historic architecture

A summer visit to France in the port city of Marseille is one of the best places in the country to visit in the warmer months. The summer climate, especially in June and July, is spectacular, which is why these are popular tourist months. The comfortable days mean you can spend time outside kayaking around or exploring the Old Port area, which has been instrumental in trading for thousands of years.

There are so many ways to enjoy the culture and heritage of Marseille, from electric bikes and walking around the historical center to a boat cruise and seeing the top sights from a hop-on, hop-off bus. Since summer is an ideal time to visit Marseille, you will need to make hotel reservations far in advance but you can base in the city and make day trips to other top areas like Arles and Nîmes .

Highlights: Long daylight hours to take in museums, wildlife tours, hiking, and rafting

Anchorage, Alaska is one of the best places to visit in the summer, when the weather is ideal, and since the days are longer, you can pack more into the daily itinerary. During the summer solstice in June, daylight lasts close to 22 hours , so you have more time to hike, canoe, golf, or do a whale-watching tour.

There are also many heritage centers like the Anchorage Museum to visit, so you can plan a mix of outdoor and indoor activities. The temperatures in the summer are comfortable (averaging in the 60s Fahrenheit), so it is a great time to try river rafting, take a wildlife viewing tour, and see the landscape by railroad.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anchorage, Alaska

Highlights: Picturesque views at every turn, from the ocean to the cliffs, at this UNESCO World Heritage Site

The summer sun and vacation vibe is terrific on the Amalfi Coast in Italy, which already has an exotic flare. The natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site is even more picturesque during summer, when the forests are vibrant and the coast and cliffs are at your beck and call.

The Amalfi Coast beaches are where you will likely spend much of your time, but carve out some of the itinerary for visiting the beautiful Villa Cimbrone Gardens and walking the narrow streets of Centro Storico.

Since the Amalfi Coast is a treasure of Italy, it is also where many Italians go for vacation, so the summer season is busy at the beaches and resorts, but it is also the best time to see the coastal region at its best.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Amalfi Coast: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights: Walkable city, easy access to attractions via the double-decker bus system

While the summer months in Scotland are the peak of tourist season, they are the best times to experience cities like the capital of Edinburgh. June, July, and August have comfortable temperatures in the mid-60s (Fahrenheit), which are ideal for walking around the city or taking a sightseeing tour on a double-decker bus.

Summertime also means longer days in the city, so you can take your time strolling down the Royal Mile in the Old Town area, sitting on a bench in the parks and gardens and visiting Edinburgh Castle . With the clear summer days, you can get a great photo from above the city at Calton Hill, one of the most popular vantage points.

Summer is festival time in Edinburgh and the height of tourist season, so book travel and hotels far in advance. You can save a little bit of money during this busy season by taking advantage of some of the free things to do in Edinburgh .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Edinburgh

Highlights: Summer outdoor festivals showcase the best in Chicago's music, food, and culture.

The city of Chicago comes alive in the summer with outdoor festivals, boats on the water, the Navy Pier in full swing, and perfect outdoor weather. Summer is the busiest time in Chicago because it is an exciting time to visit, when the fierce winter cold is gone and before it returns again in the late fall.

Summer means walking the Magnificent Mile and spending time in Grant Park. With the sun at its full potential in June, July, and August, you can get a great reflective selfie in "The Bean" sculpture in Millennium Park .

Hotel availability can be scarce in the summer months and expensive for the lodging that is available, so plan on booking hotels several months in advance.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chicago

Highlight: Hiking the famous Inca Trail on a guided expedition

Since Machu Picchu is a bucket-list vacation for many people, it is best to experience it in the summer, when there is less chance of rain showers and inclement weather, especially if you plan to hike. This is a popular time for tourists who want to hike the Inca Trail .

Even if you do not plan to hike, the summer weather in Machu Picchu and Cusco is ideal. Keep in mind that since this is a popular time of year and trail spots require reservations and tickets, hikers should plan far in advance.

• Read More: Top World Heritage Sites

Highlights: Riding ski lifts to the top of the mountains to enjoy the summertime views of the lakes and landscape

In the wintertime, this mountain resort is known as the American celebrity ski hot spot, but in the summer, Aspen is a fun, family-friendly destination that's perfect if you love the great outdoors. You can enjoy some of those incredible ski slopes by mountain bike or on foot using the ski lifts to get to the top. The mountains are beautiful, with lush green valleys and wildflowers, perfect for hiking.

Areas like the Maroon Bells, located just a few minutes outside downtown Aspen, offer postcard-like mountain vistas. As this is the off-season, hotel rates are less expensive, and there are fewer crowds to deal with.

• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Aspen, CO
• From Denver to Aspen: Best Ways to Get There

Highlights: Iconic blue water, a playground for the jet-set, hidden beaches, charming small towns

This magical Italian island, which is closer to Africa than it is to Europe, comes alive during the summer. The international glitterati converge here, arriving mainly by yacht and private jet. Get a taste of it by visiting places like Porto Cervo and the Costa Smeralda. But there is so much more here than fancy stores and live music.

Head to places like the Bidderosa Oasis, a large nature preserve near the city of Orosei with forests and many secluded beaches and coves. You'll find that electric aqua blue water and the white-sand beaches the island is famous for.

Skip the pricey beach resorts and stay in an albergo diffuso in one of the island's small towns like Santu Lussurgiu. These are boutique hotels diffused or spread out across multiple properties in the town, usually old houses. So instead of a hotel room, you get a little self-contained house.

Take some time to explore the island's Bronze Age history. There have been people here for over 4,000 years, and you can visit nuraghi, which are ancient stone structures whose meaning or use is still a mystery.

• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sardinia
• Best Beaches in Sardinia

Highlight: Taking a dip in the century-old hot springs pools

Another great place in Europe to visit during the summer, this Eastern European city delivers an amazing vacation experience at a lower price than cities like London or Paris . Perched on the banks of the Danube River, Budapest is filled with history, culture, great food, and friendly people.

Trace Budapest's Roman history with a visit to the Aquincum Museum and site, the original Roman settlement area. Jump into the massive Szechenyi Bath, a mineral hot spring spa pool over 100 years old or take a day just to explore the attractions of Castle Hill . Enjoy some goulash, the local spicy beef stew, and spend an evening listening to music composed by Hungarian composers at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music's concert hall.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Budapest

Highlight: Walking the streets of London to take in the nuances of this famous city, like neighborhood markets, alongside the key attractions

Summer in London is a trip you will never forget. Yes, it is the busiest time of the year in the city, but it is also the most exciting time to visit, when flowers are in full bloom in the city parks , festivals are underway, and the weather is pleasant.

Given London's reputation for grey skies and drizzle, summer is your best opportunity to comfortably visit the top tourist attractions like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London , the Shard, Trafalgar Square , and the city's museums. It's still best to pack a light jacket or travel umbrella just in case.

London's transportation system makes it easy to get around by train or by bus but there are some fantastic walking tours that you can do on your own and adjust to fit the time that you have available. Since the weather is mostly nice in the summer, you can spend more time outdoors getting to local markets and small eateries.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Summer Vacation Ideas: Perhaps you already have your mind set on a particular part of the world. As you research your summer vacation ideas, be sure to review our top places to visit in Europe in Summer and the best summer vacation spots in the USA . If beaches are a priority, you will want to review the top-rated beaches in Thailand and the best beaches in the Caribbean .

More on Arizona

The top 10 places to visit this summer 

Swimming, nature, shopping and more can be found this summer in Moscow

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

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If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

Alya and Campbell

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If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2024, visit these 10 top destinations

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

From iconic islands to major cities to the lesser-known, wild region of Epiros, our list of essential Greek destinations has a bit of everything © Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

As its mythical Sirens were reputed to do, Greece has long lured travelers to its scintillating shores.

Across an expansive island archipelago, traditional whitewashed villages, azure seas and waterfront tavernas enchant visitors. Greece’s mountainous mainland, rich in UNESCO World Heritage–listed ancient sites, treasure-filled museums and spirited cities, is no less fascinating. As you contemplate your dream Greece itinerary, consider these 10 favorite places to add to it.

Wherever you walk in Greece’s storied capital, the ancients have walked before – whether you see the evidence or not. From the Acropolis  (whose jewel in the crown is the fifth-century BCE Parthenon ) to the underground metro (where some stations feature archaic finds), Athens  is teeming with historical sites , monuments and museums. A combo card affords entry to the Acropolis and six more sites; the Acropolis Museum is also a must-see.

Easy to tackle on foot, Athens is also one of Europe’s liveliest metropolises – and strolls through neighborhoods like old-town Plaka , flea market–famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights. By night, catch a live band in gritty Gazi , catch a movie at an outdoor cinema in Thission or go bar-hopping off the main commercial street Ermou.

Local tip: Book tickets online for a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater as part of the  Epidaurus Festival , which takes place each summer.

A collection of over 70 beaches, sea caves hidden beneath limestone cliffs and technicolor traditional boat houses are just some of the reasons why mineral-rich Milos has won the hearts of many travelers. Evidence of its volcanic origins can be seen in the almost lunar landscape of Sarakiniko , where the more daring dive into a jade-colored Aegean. Arrive early at Gerondas beach to nab the generous shade of caves and enjoy floating silently in still waters.

Planning tip: Save a couple of days to spend on Kimolos, a small island northeast of Milos reachable by ferry. One of its most impressive beaches is Prassa, where coarse, blindingly white sand shows off shallow, aquamarine waters to full effect.

Rhodes has long been the Dodecanese ’s biggest draw thanks to its atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage–listed medieval old town . Transformed in the Middle Ages by the Knights of the Order of St John into a formidable fortified city, it fell to the Ottomans, who erected mosques, baths and houses, many of which have been restored. Youngsters might envision armored men on horseback thundering down the cobblestoned Street of the Knights .

Make sure you visit the Palace of the Grand Master , which features stunning Roman and Early Christian floor mosaics, and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.

Planning tip: Book a state-licensed tour guide to show you around the old town for a full picture of its long and fascinating history.

4. Santorini

Whether you’re coupled up or not, it’s hard not to fall for Santorini ’s charms. Whitewashed and pastel-hued, cube-shaped homes cling to steep cliffsides above a cobalt Aegean and the island’s famed caldera, formed by volcanic eruptions over millennia.

Weave your way through the narrow alleyways of the postcard-perfect village of Oia amid blue-domed churches. Bathe in thermal springs warmed by an active volcano, splay out on black-sand beaches and don’t miss the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri , which features an advanced drainage system.

Planning tip: Book a private tour of Santorini ’s smaller wine estates, whose new generation of vintners is breathing new life into traditional wines like mezzo and Nychteri.

In Greece’s west lies Epiros , a remote region of soaring mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers and hidden rock canyons. Hike to the alpine heights of Mt Tymfi’s Dragon Lake, which freezes over in winter, or traverse the thick forests, inclines and descents of spectacular Vikos Gorge . Whitewater rafting thrills and spills await in the Voidomatis or Arachthos rivers, while canyoning enthusiasts can choose from routes of varying difficulty.

6. Kythnos and Serifos

If peaceful sandy shores, unassuming waterfront tavernas and sleepy villages are more your style, the low-key West Cyclades isles of Kythnos and Serifos are worth a stop. Kythnos has deep, sheltered bays and tamarisk-dotted silver-sand beaches, among them Lefkes and Naousa.

Wallet-friendly tavernas line the laid-back fishing settlements of Loutro and Meriha, while wind-whipped Serifos , a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus , features sweeping sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ghostly mining relics and a jewel-like hilltop capital whose neoclassical town hall stands sentinel over the buzzy main square.

7. Thessaloniki

At the crossroads of East and West, where the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have held sway over the centuries, Thessaloniki tempts serious foodies. Bougatsa , a phyllo pastry pie usually filled with semolina custard, spinach or mince meat, makes for a hearty breakfast. Pick up olives and spices at the olfactory-awakening open-air markets and Pontic cheeses from indoor food hub Modiano , which dates back to 1922. In the former oil merchant district of Ladadika, mezedopolia serve dishes revealing strong Anatolian and Middle Eastern influences, customarily with the fiery clear spirit tsipouro .

Planning tip: Thessaloniki is also renowned for its fish and seafood, served with fervor and pride whether it’s a backstreet taverna or an upscale restaurant. Bookings are recommended for the latter.

Tranquil, turquoise seas, fir-studded hillsides and a regal capital make Corfu one of the most beautiful parts of the country to go sailing. The Ionian isle is the ideal starting point for novices who can take a sailing course and gain certification.

Afterward, join a flotilla for a leisurely cruise around Corfu, dropping anchor at Kalami Bay (of The Durrells fame) and lush Paleokastritsa. In Corfu Town , admire Venetian fortresses, the French-designed Liston Arcade and The Palace of St Michael and St George , built during the island’s British administration.

Planning tip: Few venture to Erikousa island, northwest of Corfu, which is blessed with pristine beaches and shallow cerulean seas.

Greece’s largest island, Crete  abounds in historical sites, well-preserved monuments and modern museums. A wander through the Minoan-era palaces of Knossos , Malia , Phaestos and Kato Zakros  won’t disappoint any fan of classical culture.

Stroll along the Venetian Harbour in Hania , lined with Ottoman monuments such as the Kioutsouk Hasan Mosque . Trek up to Byzantine and Venetian fortresses such as the Fortezza in Rethymno and Kastelli in Hania. In the east, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Spinalonga islet reveals a harrowing, more recent past as a leper colony.

Among noteworthy museums are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , Chania’s Maritime Museum of Crete , and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna in Rethymno.

10. Mykonos

In the 1960s and 70s, Mykonos hosted roving hippies, celebrities and moneyed jet-setters who flirted and danced till the sun came up. While new five-star hotels and swanky brand-name restaurants may have altered the landscape and driven up prices, the fabled Cycladic isle still reigns supreme when it comes to summer nightlife in the Mediterranean.

Revelers can choose from the thumping bars lining Little Venice in Hora , as well as beach bars, cabaret restaurants and iconic clubs like seaside Cavo Paradiso , where illustrious music DJs fire up the crowd.

Planning tip: August is Mykonos’ busiest month. It’s also when you can witness the hottest DJs and surprise appearances by music artists, including prominent hip-hop names.

This article was first published Jul 5, 2021 and updated Mar 4, 2024.

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12 Things To Do In Moscow: Complete Guide To A Unique Idaho City

M oscow, Idaho, is a small city with plenty to offer lovers of the outdoors and culture aficionados. Moscow is the county seat of Latah County in the panhandle region of Idaho. It’s known as the home of the University of Idaho, which is a great campus with galleries and gardens for visitors to explore.

Moscow’s landscape is particularly unique as it is set in the Palouse region , an area between Idaho, southeastern Washington, and even Oregon, known for its peculiar rolling green hills, which make it one of the most beautiful vistas in the state . d.

UPDATE: 2023/08/22 16:57 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are More Things To Do While In Moscow, Idaho!

This article has been refreshed with new stops in Moscow, Idaho, as well as tips, tricks, and things to experience in town. From fun waterslides to nature preserves to beer, here are all the reasons Moscow should be on the itinerary this fall and beyond!

Things To Do

Here is everything travelers need to know about planning a great trip to Moscow, Idaho, including the best time of year to visit, where to eat and drink, and the best activities.

Check Out The Historic McConnell Mansion

One thing to do while in Moscow, Idaho, is to go see the McConnel Mansion , located in Moscow's historic neighborhood. Here is where a home built by the former governor sits, now working as a place to learn more about Moscow, as well as see how life and architecture looked back then.

Constructed in 1886, this museum also features period rooms and decor, so it's certainly worth seeing for people in the area.

• Address: 110 S Adams St, Moscow, ID 83843
• Hours: Dependent on season/tour

Soak Up The Sun At Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center

The next thing to do in Moscow, Idaho, is to check out the Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center . Here is where families or groups can enjoy the outdoor seasonal water park with a lazy river, large pool, waterslides & interactive play area.

This aquatic center boasts a great summer itinerary, making it perfect for travelers with children.

• Address: 830 N Mountain View Rd, Moscow, ID 83843
• Hours: Open daily from 12 PM to 7:30 PM (Open at 11 AM on Saturdays and Sundays)
• Tickets: Children 3 and under FREE, Children 4-17 $5.75 including tax, Adults 18-64 $7.75 including tax, Seniors 65+ $5.75 including tax

Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute

Another idea while in town would be to visit the Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute. Here is where people visiting Moscow can explore a 26.2-acre nature preserve in the city, as well as walk around and enjoy the fresh air.

• Address: 1040 Rodeo Dr, Moscow, ID 83843
• Hours: Open Monday - Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM

See A Show At The Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre

The next idea for a Moscow, Idaho, visitor is to catch a performance at the city's Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre . Here lies a restored historic theater that offers classic films, community events, and a variety of stage performances.

• Address: 508 S Main St, Moscow, ID 83843

Cycle Some Of The Palouse Bike Trails

A very popular tourist activity in Moscow is to rent a bike and cycle through some of the Palouse bike trails. A popular trail is the 7-mile Bill Chipman Palouse Trail between Pullman in Washington and Moscow.

• Admission: Bike rental costs will vary; check out Paradise Bike Rentals
• Address: The trail end points are SE Bishop Blvd. (Pullman, WA) and Farm Rd. (Moscow, ID)

View The University Of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Spend an afternoon checking out the countless plants from across the world in the University’s Arboretum & Botanical Garden . The garden is open every day, from dawn to dusk.

• Admission: Free
• Address: 875 Perimeter Drive MS 2281, Moscow, Idaho

Head To The Moscow Farmer’s Market

Visiting the Farmer’s Market is the big thing to do in Moscow and is incredibly popular with locals and visitors alike. It’s held from May to October from 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. Check out the fresh produce and enjoy some local performers entertaining the crowds.

• Address: 101-155 W 4th St, Moscow, ID 83843

Camp Out In Robinson County Park

This campsite is great for those who would like to immerse themselves in nature but also want to be close to town, and the campsite in Robinson is just a ten-minute drive from downtown Moscow. This park has plenty of trails and picnic spots to enjoy.

• Admission: $20 a night to camp
• Address: 5168 Robinson Park Rd, Moscow ID 83843

Related: 8 Idaho State Parks To Add To Your Scenic Bucket List

Check Out The Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center

For those wanting to learn about the history of the beautiful Appaloosa horse breed, native to the Palouse region, the Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center is a perfect place to spend the afternoon.

Here is where guests can tour the Davis-Gillman Activity Center, Gift Shop, and Picnic Area, all while learning more about this area's rich culture.

• Address: 2720 Pullman Rd, Moscow, ID 83843, USA
• 1912 Center: Check out some local art and learn about cultural initiatives in Moscow
• Address: 412 E. Third St. Moscow, ID 83843

Tour The Third Street Gallery

Next up, guests of the city of Moscow, Idaho, can check out the Third Street Gallery. The Third Street Gallery is located on the second and third floors of Moscow's beautifully renovated and historic City Hall, making that another nice thing to see while here.

• Address: 206 W 3rd St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA
• Hours: Seasonally/dependent on art and creators

Skate At The Palouse Ice Rink

Another fun stop in the Moscow area is the Palouse Ice Rink , a fun place to visit for all the family for some ice skating and hockey in the winter and rollerblading during the summer.

This could be a nice location to bring the family, especially for people with young kids.

• Admission: Adults - $10, Children 6-17 - $8.00, 5 and under free
• Family Admission (up to 5 members) - $35.00
• Address: 1021 Harold St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA

Taste Local Moscow Craft Beers

Moscow has a pretty extensive craft beer culture, and it's well worth making a day of visiting some of the local breweries. Here are several great breweries to check out.

Moscow Brewing Company : Be sure to visit Moscow’s first brewhouse for some great history and even better beer

• Address: 630 N Almon St #130, Moscow, ID

Hunga Dunga Brewing Company - Offering unique IPAs, Stouts, and so much more.

• Address: 333 N Jackson St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA

Rants & Rave Brewery - A brewery and a grill, what’s not to love?

• Address: 308 N Jackson St, Moscow, ID, USA

Best Time To Go To Moscow, Idaho

Moscow, Idaho, has a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months, the temperature can reach into the 90s and can be quite dry. The winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and the area receiving some snowfall. Spring and fall are mild, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s.

The best time of year depends on what visitors have planned for the trip. The months of June, July, and August are great for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Related: Drive Mesa Falls Scenic Byway & See Idaho's Most Stunning Views

However, in the winter months, there are local mountains and resorts suitable for snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing for those interested in winter sports. The Palouse Ice Rink is a popular spot for locals and visitors during the winter, too, and also offers some family-friendly activities the whole year round. Even a scenic road trip can be enjoyable during Idaho's winter .

The city tends to be a bustling hub of activity during its festivals, like the Rendezvous in the Park music festival, which usually takes place on the third weekend in July, or the Moscow Winter Carnival, which takes place in early December.

Best Ways To Get Around Moscow Idaho

Moscow is a very walkable city, and most of the main destinations for tourists can be accessed on foot, especially during the summer. Getting around on a bike is a great option; Moscow has 36 miles of paved trails, so renting a bicycle in town could be a good choice for visitors.

• Paradise Bike Rentals is a convenient bike rental shop on Main Street.

Moscow also has a public bus system called the Sustainable Moscow Area Regional Transportation or SMART transit that covers two loops, one in the west and one in the east of the town, and the fixed routes are free.

There are multiple taxi and rideshare companies in Moscow, and Uber and Lyft are also available. Here are some local Taxi company options:

• Moscow Taxi
• Pegasus Taxi

It’s possible to rent a car coming from the regional Pullman Moscow airport from companies Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget.

Where To Eat In Moscow, Idaho

Moscow, Idaho, has some great spots for food, drinks, and coffee if visitors know where to look. The food options in Idaho tend to pleasantly surprise visitors. As it's a student town, there are more than a few fun bars too.

Best Breakfast in Moscow, Idaho

One World Café, Breakfast Club, Varsity Diner

Delicious Lunches in Moscow, Idaho:

Shari’s Café and Pies, Einstein Bros Bagels, Stax

Fantastic Dinners in Moscow, Idaho:

Nectar, Tapped - Taphouse & Kitchen, Lodgepole

Great Coffee Shops in Moscow, Idaho:

Café Artista, Bucer's Coffee House Pub, Steam Coffee

Fun Bars in Moscow, Idaho:

John’s Alley Tavern, Mingles Bar & Grill, Neat Whiskey Bar

Where To Stay In Moscow, Idaho

There are a number of hotels and rentals in the city, although some travelers also opt to stay in the nearby Washington state town of Pullman. Here are a few options in Moscow itself:

Highly rated hotels in Moscow Idaho

Best Western Plus University Inn : Room rates at the Best Western Plus University Inn start from $120 per night

• Amenities: Swimming pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant, and bar
• Address: 1516 Pullman Road, Moscow, Idaho 83843

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moscow : Room rates at the Fairfield Inn & Suites start from $140 per night

• Amenities: Free breakfast, indoor pool, and fitness center
• Address: 1000 West Pullman Road, Moscow, Idaho 83843, United States

Mid-Tier hotels in Moscow

The Monarch Motel Room rates at the Monarch Hotel start from $100 per night

• Amenities: garden/chill-out area
• Address: 120 W 6th St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

Hotel Mccoy Pullman Room rates at this property start from $140 per night

• Amenities: Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking
• Address: 455 Southeast Paradise Street, Pullman, WA 99163

Related: Idaho The Potato State: Why Not Sleep In A Hotel Shaped Like One?

Budget hotels in Moscow Idaho

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Moscow Pullman : Room rates at La Quinta Inn & Suites start from $130 per night

• Amenities: Free breakfast, airport shuttle, shuttle to local attractions
• Address: 185 Warbonnet Dr, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

Super 8 by Wyndham Moscow / Pullman: Room rates at Super 8 by Wyndham Moscow start from $80 per night

• Amenities: Mobile check-in, Wi-Fi, free coffee & breakfast Item
• Address: 175 Peterson Drive Pullman Hwy and 175 Peterson Dr, Moscow, ID 83843

Tips For Visiting Moscow, Idaho

Moscow is a University city in north central Idaho and has a population of just over 25,000. It’s about 8 miles east of the Washington State border. It’s been home to the University of Idaho since 1889.

Moscow is served by a regional airport, The Pullman Moscow Airport is four miles west of the city, and the closest major airport is Spokane International Airport in Washington, located within 90 miles east of the city.

From here, visitors can rent a car or arrange a shuffle to get to Moscow; it will take about an hour and 40 minutes.

Related: Explore Idaho's Capital City: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Boise & Things To Do

Moscow is located along Highway 95, which runs north and south through the city. It’s also possible to travel to Moscow by bus from Spokane and Seattle. It’s good to know a little bit about the unique landscape travelers will get to explore when visiting Moscow. It’s part of the Palouse region, which encompasses parts of north central Idaho, southeastern Washington, and a little bit of Oregon.

Its distinctive and peculiar rolling green hills are made of a material called loess, which is mainly dust and silt blown in over thousands of years from the southwest.

After periods of deposition and erosion in harsh weather, unique dune-like shapes formed in the landscape. The Palouse region is a major agriculture zone, mainly for grain production, and it's also a stunning place to experience as a tourist.

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Moscow, Idaho

A perfect day in Moscow will start with a great breakfast, so head to the popular One World Café for a delicious bite to eat and then get ready to take on some of the incredible Palouse biking trails. Rent a bike for the afternoon and take the Bill Chipman Palouse trail nearby by Pullman and back.

Don’t forget to bring a camera. Head for lunch at Stax for some soup and sandwiches, and then visit the University of Idaho campus for a stroll through the arboretum and Botanical Garden. While on campus, check out some of the famous landmarks, like the Kibbie Dome or the Prichard Art Gallery.

In the evening, enjoy a fancy dinner at Lodgepole and polish the evening off with a drink at John’s Alley Tavern.

Forbes ranks this Florida city as the ‘worst city to travel to’ this summer. Do you agree?

Are you planning a weekend trip this summer? Maybe a relaxing stay by a sandy beach or a tour of the hottest new restaurants in a major foodie city.

Whatever your desired vacation looks like, Forbes Advisor notes that some locations are way better than others.

The site released its analysis of the worst big cities to travel to for a summer vacation, with three Florida cities taking up places within the top 10.

What makes a city the worst for travel? Forbes cites three main categories

When determining their ranking, Forbes Advisor looked at the following to rank the cities:

• City experience (hotel prices, meal prices, tour prices, crime, walkability, and restaurant rankings)
• Air travel experience (flight delays, property loss and reimbursement percentage)
• Driving experience (gas prices, parking, and traffic data)

What is the worst city to travel to this summer?

DUUUVAL! According to Forbes, Jacksonville was crowned the winner (or loser) of its ranking.

The city scored the lowest for walkability and third lowest for access to public transportation, dubbing it hard to get around. Locals already know this and are quick to point out to out-of-towners that Jacksonville is the largest city in the contiguous United States by land area, covering almost 875 square miles.

It doesn't help that the city has the sixth-fewest parking lots and garages, along with the eighth-fewest restaurants with four or more stars on Tripadvisor.

It also saw points for Jacksonville International Airport having the second-highest percentage of disrupted summer flights at 28.9% on average. To top it all off, Jacksonville has the eighth-highest crime rate with almost 64 crimes per 1,000 residents.

What other Florida cities were included in the worst places to travel to this summer?

In addition to Jacksonville, travelers saw warnings about two other Florida cities — Tampa and Miami.

Sliding into eighth place, Tampa earned an overall score of almost 68. It most saw points for its air travel experience and driving experience.

As for Miami, it saw the 10th spot and received one of the highest marks for its air travel experience.

See the top 10 worst cities to travel to this summer

• Jacksonville, Florida
• Colorado Springs, Colorado
• Fresno, California
• Memphis, Tennessee
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Tampa, Florida
• Tucson, Arizona
• Miami, Florida

So, where is the best place to vacation this summer?

Minneapolis, Minnesota was ranked as the top destination for Summer vacations in the U.S., according to the Forbes ranking.

Here are the top five best places to vacation this summer:

• Minneapolis , Minnesota
• Long Beach , California
• Washington , D.C.
• Seattle , Washington
• Omaha , Nebraska

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100 Fun Things to Do This Summer — From Outdoor Concerts to Hiking Adventures

Take advantage of the sunshine, with these cultural experiences across the country, last-minute travel ideas, and ways to stay active all summer long.

It goes without saying that this summer looks completely different from last summer, and we could not be more excited, or more grateful. While summer 2020 was filled with Zoom calls, canceled vacation plans, and a frantic search for virtual activities to keep us occupied, summer 2021 is all about getting back out there. That means reclaiming a life of travel, restaurants, in-person sporting events, and even — dare we say it — concerts. As you use this summer to return to your own personal version of normal (which may include a packed social calendar, or may simply include more socially distant hikes with friends), we've gathered 100 things to do this season.

From booking tickets to "Immersive Van Gogh" to jetting off to Europe to reinventing your backyard, here are 100 ideas to inspire your summer.

Culture Experiences IRL — From Outdoor Theatre to Returning to Disneyland

See an outdoor American Ballet Theatre performance.

Book your tickets to the "Immersive Van Gogh" experience that's happening across the U.S. this summer.

Visit the new Avengers Campus at Disneyland and tap into your inner superhero.

Take a boat tour of your home city — whether it's a duck boat tour on the Charles River in Boston or a cruise to the Statue of Liberty from Lower Manhattan.

Visit the best and most ethical zoos in the U.S.

Attend the concert of the century with 60,000 people at Central Park on August 21 to celebrate the city's reopening.

Attend an outdoor movie in your area — from Cinespia in Los Angeles to Bryant Park movie nights in NYC.

Head to California to return to Disneyland — the park is open to out-of-state travelers as of June 15.

Bring your summer to new heights with a visit to this newly renovated observation deck in Chicago.

Take in a New York Philharmonic concert in Central Park.

Enjoy the amazing Disney Parks fireworks — they're coming back July 1, and we're beyond ready.

Check out New York City Theatre's website for the best stand-up comedy shows in the city this summer, and go catch one of your favorite comedians.

Go to an actual sporting event — in person. Weep tears of joy over your hot dog and beer.

Make a triumphant return to Disney World and rank every single one of the park's rides.

See Haim in concert this summer at the Santa Barbara Bowl in California.

Go roller skating on the JFK tarmac.

Find Relaxation and Restoration This Summer

Find your inner Zen with a yoga retreat or wellness vacation to bring a renewed sense of calm into your post-vaccine life.

Take up bullet journaling as a way to organize your thoughts and bring a sense of calm to your mornings.

Immerse yourself in travel with these books by Asian and Pacific Islander authors.

Let Alexander Skarsgard lull you to sleep with a bedtime story. Yes, that's a real thing you can do this summer. It's — wait for it — the dream.

Seek refuge from the world at an Italian day spa — on Governors Island.

Grab an amazing beach read from this list of highly anticipated books for summer 2021.

If you're comfortable heading to a spa, try one of the new treatments your favorite hotel is now offering as a way to heal your mind and body.

Book a Last-minute Vacation to Make Up for the Lack of 2020 Travel

Take a road trip to a National Park you've never visited — and do at least one hike that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

Plug a few reopened European destinations into your preferred flight search engine, find the cheapest flight, book it, and GO.

Do it up right and book a weekend in the Hamptons, you deserve it.

If you live in New York City, play hooky for the day and go to Coney Island on a whim.

Rent an RV and visit one of these nine most spectacular RV campgrounds in the U.S.

Take a leaf out of President Biden's book and plan a weekend getaway by train.

If you're ready for a city break but not ready for the crowds, drive to one of the least crowded cities in the U.S.

Go stargazing in Hawaii with an actual NASA ambassador and take your space fandom to the next level.

Use travel as a form of education by visiting one of these destinations in the U.S., which will help you learn more about Black history in this country.

Visit the oldest city in the U.S. with your girlfriends or female family members.

Scope out the most popular vacation rental spots of the summer — then book one.

If you're heading back to an office this fall, take advantage of your last fully Work From Home season and work from a rented lake house for a week.

Want the glamorous luxury hotel experience without the price tag? Book a day pass to your dream hotel this summer instead.

Take a solo staycation in your own city, and you might just learn something about yourself.

Trade in your home office for a lounge chair on this private beach in Mykonos and make your aspirational Zoom backgrounds a reality.

Wine and Dine All Summer Long (At Home and Out in the World)

Go to a cookie speakeasy in Philadelphia. That's it, that's the whole pitch.

Visit the restaurant where Anthony Bourdain began his culinary career.

Learn to make IKEA's Swedish meatballs — through illustrated instructions, of course.

Make limoncello at home in preparation for a future trip to Italy.

Take a live cooking class with Sur La Table — get your whole house involved.

Learn to make a perfect martini, a classic negroni, and even marinara sauce with the one and only Stanley Tucci .

Learn to make an original Piña Colada and enjoy an island vacation from the comfort of your own home.

Go find this hidden Michelin-starred restaurant in New York City (psst, we'll tell you where to find the key).

Start learning more about natural wine and orange wine — then invite your friends over for a dinner party so you can effortlessly describe your favorite skin contact vinos.

Celebrate Pride (in June and beyond) at home with these cocktails and recipe ideas.

Try Something New, and Learn Something About Yourself

Buy a Polaroid camera and learn to take the perfect Polaroid picture to make your summer memories last.

Take an introduction to woodworking class with The Weekend Woodworker.

Take a DNA test and trace your ancestral roots to learn more about yourself and your family — maybe it will inspire your future travels.

Take virtual art classes with the MoMa.

Stay on top of current events by listening to The Daily every morning — and challenge yourself to take a walk as you listen.

Dye your hair a fun, unexpected summer color that you might not ordinarily try.

Adopt a puppy and change your life for the better.

Try self-tanner before your next beach vacation — and soak in the compliments.

Learn the art of packing light from Mario Lopez.

Summer Home Improvement That's Actually Fun

Spruce up your outdoor space (look for inspiration from your favorite hotel common areas).

Organize your travel-oriented brain by decorating with a world map that lets you mark off every destination you've been to.

Build yourself a small, at-home vegetable or herb garden, whether you have an entire backyard, or just a small city terrace.

Create the perfect home bar with iconic glassware and must-have spirits.

Upgrade your sound system and curate a retro corner of the house, with a new record player and a console to display your best vinyl.

Upgrade your kitchen with new cookware and use it as an excuse to go full Ina Garten this summer.

Make your home more like your favorite hotel — by incorporating luxe pieces from iconic five-star hotel brands

Become a plant parent and have a blast curating plants for every room of your apartment or house.

Bring the camping experience to your backyard with these eight portable fire pits you absolutely need.

Take a leaf out of Sweden's book and create your own al fresco bar.

Opt Outside and Get Active

Hike through towering redwoods on a newly opened California hiking trail.

Become a certified yoga teacher by taking a 200-hour teacher training course, either online or in person.

If you live in a major city, start taking daily nature walks with the help of a meditation app.

Get a glam Airbnb in California's Yucca Valley and experience some of the most impressive stargazing of your life.

Visit Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks as they resume bus tours this summer.

Train for the New York City marathon.

Visit at least one of Utah's two brand-new state parks.

Learn to actually enjoy camping by bringing an air mattress for your tent instead of your sleeping bag — trust us, it's a complete game-changer.

Stargaze at Zion National Park, which just got its official Dark Sky status.

Go find the best hike in your state — and try as many other trails as possible along the way.

Rent a Citi Bike (or rentable bike in your area) and explore your neighborhood by bike to see it through a different lens.

Take a yoga class on the highest observation deck in the Western Hemisphere.

Tap into nature on a more localized level and explore nearby state parks this summer.

Start literally chasing waterfalls by planning one waterfall hike a month for the rest of the summer.

Trek this little-known, 82-mile trail in Northern Ireland for an impromptu hiking adventure you'll never forget.

Not ready to go back to in-person workouts? Take online yoga classes at home with Y7 Online.

Visit New York City's newest pier, "Little Island" — it just opened in May.

Try electric biking for the first time — the ease-of-use will instantly make you a cycling fan.

Virtual Experiences for When You're in Need of a Cultured Activity Without Leaving the House

Livestream iconic operas from the MET with their ongoing Nightly Opera Streams series.

Watch the original cast performance of 'Hamilton' if you haven't already — it's still on Disney+ .

Experience the best international Disney rides — that you wouldn't find in California or Florida — virtually.

Create a movie theatre at home, snacks and all, and screen a double feature for your household.

Binge watch these Scandinavian TV shows and get inspired to head to Denmark and Sweden.

Enjoy a number of experiences — cooking and dance classes, for example — with Bahamanian locals, and you'll feel instantly like you're on island time.

Post old travel photos of yourself on the beach (with adorable captions, the whole works) while actually sitting on your couch in sweatpants. We won't tell.

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5 Things To Do This Summer To Prepare Your College Applications

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Harvard University Admissions

The summer before senior year is a critical time for those preparing to submit college applications in the fall. While summer is traditionally seen as a time to relax and recharge, it also offers a valuable opportunity for students to develop their passion projects, start writing their application essays, and plan a timeline that will allow them to stay organized and on track throughout the fall. As they look forward to compiling their college applications, here are five essential tasks that rising seniors should tackle this summer to set themselves up for success:

1. Start The Common App Essay

One of the most daunting and time-consuming parts of the college application process is writing the personal statement , also known as the Common App essay. Students should anticipate that the writing process will take longer than they initially expect it to, as the best essays require self-reflection, multiple drafts, and a great deal of editing. Writing this essay over the summer will allow students time to brainstorm, draft, and revise without the added pressure of schoolwork.

The Common App essay should tell a compelling story. Often, it will serve to highlight a student’s hook and cohere all of the elements of a student’s application around a central narrative. Students should begin by reflecting on their experiences, values, and academic and personal goals. While many students assume that a standout essay requires a groundbreaking discovery, a life-altering experience, or a heroic feat, some of the most engaging and original essays are those that find significance in seemingly mundane or everyday experiences. By working on their essay over the summer, students not only have the time to workshop a unique topic, but they can also find inspiration in the activities that they engage in outside of the classroom—a lesson they learned in their summer job, a relationship they forged during their summer travels, or a personal value or belief they developed through their summer volunteering.

2. Finalize A Balanced College List

While many students go on their college visits during the spring of their junior year, summer can offer a prime opportunity for students to visit colleges and hone their balanced college list . As students evaluate the schools on their list after their visits, they should consider factors such as location, size, academic programs, extracurricular activities, and campus culture. For students who have hectic summer schedules, virtual tours, college webinars, and online information sessions can provide valuable insights.

Additionally, when it comes to finalizing their college list, students should aim to include a mix of roughly two to three safety schools, four to six match schools, and four to six reach schools. Safety schools are those for which a student’s academic credentials (standardized test scores and GPA) significantly exceed the institution’s average admitted student profile. Match schools are those for which a student’s credentials are on par with the average, and reach schools are those for which a student’s credentials are below the average of admitted students’ profiles. Students should also consider all Ivy League and top-tier schools to be reach schools, no matter how competitive their GPA and standardized tests scores are. A well-balanced list will set students up for success and provide them with options when decision time comes next spring.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, 3. achieve standardized testing goals.

As top schools continue to reverse their test-optional policies, it is critical for students to set ambitious yet attainable goals for their standardized test scores, as they are the foundation of a competitive application. There is still time for students to sign up to sit for summer tests—the ACT will be offered on July 13 (registration deadline passed on June 7, but late registration is open until June 21), and the SAT will be offered on August 24 (August 9 is the registration deadline). Students should set a study schedule that allows them to review key concepts, practice sample questions, and take full-length practice tests during their free time.

Those who have already taken standardized tests should consider retaking them if they believe they can achieve a higher score. Higher scores can increase an applicant’s competitiveness, both for college admission and for merit-based scholarships. Consistent, focused preparation can make a significant difference in students’ performance.

4. Develop A Passion Project

A passion project is an independent initiative that reflects a student’s core interests and showcases the applicant's dedication and creativity. Whether it's starting a nonprofit, conducting independent research, creating a blog, or launching a community service project, a strong passion project should highlight students' commitment to their interests and ability to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Summer is the perfect time to either start or significantly scale a passion project. Students should focus on setting clear goals, planning their activities, and documenting their progress. This project can provide rich content for their personal statement, supplemental essays, and interviews, illustrating their unique strengths and interests to admissions officers.

5. Make A Plan for Requesting Letters Of Recommendation

For students who have not yet done so, summer is an excellent time to request letters of recommendation. Students should identify the teachers, coaches, or mentors who can speak positively about their abilities and character. Reaching out to recommenders early to discuss college plans and expressing why they value their recommendation will allow recommenders to craft thoughtful letters that reflect students’ strengths and contributions.

Additionally, students should use the summer to prepare a concise packet of information for each recommender, including their resume, a list of their achievements, and any specific points they would like their recommender to highlight. Providing this information can help recommenders write a more personalized and detailed letter.

Summer is the perfect time to make progress on college applications. Students who wait until the fall must juggle the stress of sports, extracurricular activities, volunteering, and earning good grades in school, as first semester grades are often considered in the application review process. Focused summer preparation can allow students to make significant progress ahead of time, write quality essays, prepare cohesive applications, and be less stressed come fall.

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Things to do this summer in Colorado

Summer in Colorado offers many opportunities to get outside, enjoy the sunshine and make new memories. Whether your student is in Boulder for the summer or you plan to visit, here’s our list of fun activities to do. 

Boulder events and activities

Buff Pool and Patio : All summer As long as outdoor temperatures are 75+ degrees, your student can hang out and take a plunge in the Buff Pool at the Rec Center.

Boulder Farmers Market : Wednesdays and Saturdays Your student can head to 13th St on Wednesday evenings or Saturday mornings for fresh food and other items from local vendors.

Boulder Creek Festival : May 24-27 Happening over Memorial Day weekend, your student can join this longstanding festival tradition with live music, food trucks, vendors and more.

Bolder Boulder 10K : May 27  This 10K is for everyone! Your student can participate by walking, jogging or running, or lining up along the route to cheer on others.

Bands on the Bricks : Wednesdays, June 12-July 31  From rock to reggae and everything in between, your student can visit Pearl Street on Wednesdays for free concerts.

Boulder Pride Festival : June 30  Boulder’s Pride Festival will be jam-packed with activities, information from community partners and items from local vendors.

Outdoor activities 

Boulder offers plenty of options for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking and camping. If your student needs to rent equipment for camping, backpacking or other activities, encourage them to connect with Outdoor Pursuits . 

If your student plans on hiking, they can get important trail information and regulations for the Boulder area by downloading the Trails App. They can also visit the city's Open Space and Mountain Parks page and Boulder County’s Open Space Parks & Trails Listing page . 

Share these hiking tips with your student, and encourage them to follow all rules and regulations which are critical in protecting visitors, wildlife and our beautiful parks and trails.  

Denver events and activities 

Your student can use their Buff OneCard to take public transit and visit Denver. Encourage them to check out CU Night at the Rockies on Aug. 16, where they can cheer on the Rockies with fellow Buffs at this annual summer tradition!  

Many attractions in Denver have days throughout the summer with free admission , including the Denver Art Museum , the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and Denver Botanic Gardens . 

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22 things you need to help you stay cool during an Arizona summer

Living in metro Phoenix during the summer can feel like living in an oven with no off button.

With an annual average of 111 days at or above 100 degrees, there's not much you can do to change the extreme Arizona heat, but there are certainly ways to cope with it.

From keeping your AC running in tiptop shape to going out before sunrise , there are many tips, tricks and tools to help you feel cooler and stay protected in the summer.

Here are 22 products that will help you survive the extreme summer heat in Arizona.

Portable fans

If you have to be out and about or just need more airflow this summer, there are many types of wearable fans. Some hang around your neck or clip onto your waist , and the price ranges from about $10 to $50 on Amazon. If you're looking to spend a bit more, there's even a wearable belt fan for $110.

There are also many types of fans that can be taken on the go, including fans for baby strollers , or to add to car seats or dashboards for when your car's AC just isn't cutting it. They range in price from about $12 to $30.

Most of these products come with a battery that can be recharged via USB, though the battery life and charging setup can vary from product to product.

Cooling towels

Cooling towels are another tip to beat the heat. After soaking the lightweight towels in water and wringing them out, they stay cool for a long time without using chemicals. There's even a hooded version . These products cost between $5 and $25.

Wide-brimmed hats for sun protection

If you have to be out and about during the day, a wide-brimmed hat is a must for sun protection. There are many styles to choose from, like boonie caps , visors , beach hats and one with a neck cover. These products range in price from about $10 to $35.

You could also try an iced cap . This baseball cap-style hat allows you to add ice to the cap and secure it with a drawstring. The hats cost about $26 on Amazon.

Sunscreen products

Sunscreen is a must in Arizona! While Arizonans know all about SPF, there are some tips to make reapplying easier. Grab these stickers that change color when it's time to reapply , too. Packs of these stickers cost between $10 and $20.

You can also take it on the go without the bulky bottle by packing a sunscreen stick (costs range from $5 to $30) or small single application packets (costs vary depending on quantity).

Don't forget about the aloe vera for the inevitable summer sunburn. The cooling gel comes in packets and a spray form . Prices range from about $5 to $20, depending on quantity and type.

Cool sheets and blankets for hot sleepers

Metro Phoenix nights aren't a whole lot cooler than the days. If you're having trouble sleeping, try cooling sheets or blankets . These covers are made from breathable fabrics to help control temperatures, often by encouraging ventilation or wicking moisture away.

Protect Your Trip »

15 fun summer weekend getaways in the usa.

Enjoy warm temperatures, exciting events and plenty of outdoor fun in these 15 destinations.

(Getty Images) |

From big cities to small towns, these locales are filled with fun.

Burlington, Vermont

San Francisco

Nashville, Tennessee

Portland, Maine

(George Widman Photography LLC | Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia)

Philadelphia

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Shenandoah National Park

Fort Myers, Florida

(Courtesy of Grace Hotels) |

Washington, Connecticut

Napa Valley, California

Acadia National Park

Atlantic City, New Jersey

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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Biden and Zelenskyy sign security deal as Ukraine's leader questions how long the unity will last

Italy G7 President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, left, shake hands after signing a security agreement on the sidelines of the G7, Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Savelletri, Italy. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) (Alex Brandon/AP)

FASANO, Italy — (AP) — President Joe Biden and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a 10-year security agreement Thursday that they hailed as a milestone in relations between their countries, but that alone was not enough to stop Zelenskyy from wondering how much longer he could count on America's support.

Zelenskyy also said his country "urgently" needed additional air defense systems to protect Ukrainians and the nation's infrastructure from Russia's continued bombardment.

The leaders signed the agreement on the sidelines of the annual Group of Seven summit , held this year in Italy , and Biden said the goal "is to strengthen Ukraine's defense and deterrence capabilities."

Zelenskyy said at a joint news conference that the signing made for a “truly historic day,” but he also wondered about the durability of support from the United States and other allies.

Ukraine's president said the right question to ask is "for how long the unity in the world will remain? The unity in the U.S., together with European leaders" and how it will be influenced by the outcome of elections this year in many of those countries .

Topping that list is voting in the U.S. in November in a campaign that could see the return of Republican Donald Trump to the presidency. Trump has been skeptical of providing additional military aid to Ukraine, at one point criticizing the "endless flow of American treasure." He more recently has expressed openness to lending money instead and has said Ukraine's independence is important to the United States.

Biden said the U.S. has commitments from five countries that he did not name to provide Patriot missile and other air defense systems to Ukraine. He said countries that have been expecting the same weapons from the U.S. have been told they will have to wait because “everything we have is going to go to Ukraine until their needs are met.”

Zelenskyy said he “urgently” needed seven Patriot systems. Biden then told him, “You’ll have some relatively quickly.”

Germany is one of the five countries that have promised an additional Patriot system for Ukraine.

Zelenskyy went on to deliver a stark warning about Russian aggression, saying that “if Ukraine does not withstand, the democracy of many countries, I am sure, won't withstand either.”

The U.S. and European countries also agreed to keep sanctioned Russian assets locked up until Moscow pays reparations for its invasion of Ukraine, clearing the way for a $50 billion loan package for Ukraine. Combined with new sanctions against Russia announced earlier in the week, Biden said the series of actions to support Ukraine show Putin that "he cannot wait us out. He cannot divide us."

The highly anticipated agreement will leverage interest and income from more than $260 billion in frozen Russian assets, largely held in Europe, to secure a $50 billion loan from the U.S. and additional loans from other partners. Ukraine will receive the first payments sometime this year, a U.S. official said. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the agreement, which will be included in the G7 leaders' statement on Friday.

Ukraine will be able to spend the money in several areas, including military, economic, humanitarian and reconstruction needs, the official said.

The leaders’ statement on Friday will also preserve the option of confiscating the Russian assets entirely, for which the allies have yet to secure the political will, largely citing legal and financial stability concerns.

Biden and Zelenskyy met Thursday for the second time in two weeks to discuss the security agreement as the group of wealthy democracies has been looking for new ways to bolster Ukraine's defenses against Russia.

The agreement on using frozen Russian assets to benefit Ukraine comes several months after the White House broke through a logjam in Congress that had stalled approval of some $60 billion in U.S. aid for Ukraine. The delay gave Russia time to make up ground on the battlefield. Biden publicly apologized to Zelenskyy for the holdup when they met last week in France.

The security agreement does not commit U.S. troops directly to Ukraine’s defense against Russia. Biden does not want the U.S. to be pulled into a direct conflict with nuclear-armed Moscow.

The pact, which would remain in effect for 10 years, does not offer Ukraine any new money but includes a commitment by the U.S. to work with Congress on a source of sustainable funding for the future. Text of the agreement released by the White House also describes how the U.S. will coordinate with Ukraine and other U.S. allies and partners to make sure Ukraine has the military, intelligence and other means necessary to defend itself and deter Russian aggression.

The U.S. and Ukraine would also consult “at the highest levels” in the event of a future armed attack by Russia against Ukraine. Either side can terminate the agreement in writing with six months’ notice, which means a future U.S. president, including Trump if elected in November, could cancel the arrangement.

Scores of countries and organizations are set to meet over the weekend in Switzerland to discuss peace for Ukraine. Biden is not attending the summit, which has disappointed Zelenskyy. Vice President Kamala Harris will represent the U.S. instead while the Democratic president attends a campaign fundraiser in Los Angeles.

It wasn’t just Ukraine that occupied the allies’ attention.

Biden announced that Italy was joining a G7 initiative to provide development assistance to Africa, which is meant as a bulwark against growing Chinese influence on the continent . Biden said $60 billion mobilized by the U.S. and the G7 is proof "democracies can deliver," as the U.S. and its allies warn that China's investments come attached with geopolitical and economic demands.

The annual summit opened Thursday in Italy's picturesque Puglia region in the south, with leaders meeting in private to discuss the wars in Gaza and Ukraine and other mutual concerns.

The Group of Seven industrialized democracies — the U.S., Britain, Canada, France, German, Italy and Japan, plus European governing bodies — meets annually. Italy holds the rotating presidency this year, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is hosting her counterparts.

Superville reported from Fasano, Italy. Associated Press writers Chris Megerian and Zeke Miller in Washington contributed to this report.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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