12 hidden summer vacation spots for 2024

Choosing a summer getaway can be challenging, right? Should you stick to your beloved classic destinations, brave the bustling crowds in Europe, or seek a cooler climate to escape the sweltering heat?

If you're eager to explore less conventional destinations this summer, there are many amazing choices to consider, both domestically and internationally.

In Europe, trade the usual tourist hotspots for delightful locations like the canal-filled city of Hamburg, Germany, or the breathtaking fjords of Norway. While everyone seems to flock to Tokyo, the northern island of Hokkaido offers a wealth of experiences. In the U.S., summer is the perfect season to venture north to Oregon's beautiful wine country, the scenic coast of Maine, or anywhere in between.

No matter what kind of vacation you desire, these underrated destinations could become your favorite summer escape.

Ålesund, Norway

Summer is the perfect time to visit Norway, especially if you want to avoid the heat. In Ålesund, summer temperatures typically stay below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, providing delightful weather for exploring this picturesque town known for its art nouveau architecture. There’s even a museum, the Art Nouveau Centre (Jugendstilsenteret), dedicated to the town’s architectural history, showcasing how Ålesund was rebuilt in this style after a catastrophic fire in 1904.

The town offers a variety of attractions, from the Atlantic Ocean Park aquarium, where you can observe seals, penguins, and local marine life, to hiking up Mount Aksla for stunning views. It also serves as an excellent base for exploring Norway's stunning fjords, including the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, accessible via various boat and land tours, before returning to the charming Mr & Mrs Smith-affiliated Hotel Brosundet, a repurposed fisherman's warehouse.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

While many know about California's famous wine areas like Napa and Sonoma, Oregon boasts an impressive wine culture, especially delightful in the summer. Arrive in Portland, where you can enjoy the city's lively culture and culinary scene, staying a few nights at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Portland, before heading south to the charming towns known for their exceptional wines.

At The Allison Inn & Spa in Newberg, indulge in spa treatments and upscale lodging between wine tastings at over 500 nearby wineries. In McMinnville, just half an hour from the resort, explore local pinot noir at 20-plus tasting rooms while enjoying shopping and dining at notable spots like Hayward, a 2024 James Beard Award semifinalist for Best New Restaurant, offering "new Northwest fare."

Beginning in late June, the Grange Estate at Dundee Hills will feature nine rustic-chic rooms right next to the vineyards in Dundee, alongside culinary experiences curated by James Beard Award-nominated chef Chase Williams. (To make a reservation at the Grange Estate, you'll need to join the free Foley Food & Wine Society.)

Ljubljana, Slovenia.

For an experience of European allure without the crowds, Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital, should be on your travel agenda. Stroll through the historic streets of Ljubljana's Old Town or enjoy a scenic city cruise. History enthusiasts can ride the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle, which boasts nearly 1,000 years of history, while the beautifully maintained Tivoli City Park is sure to impress everyone.

Make your base at the InterContinental Ljubljana, where you can use IHG One Rewards points to book a room, or choose from the city's charming boutique hotels. Stay long enough to embark on day trips to stunning Lake Bled and the surreal formations of Postojna Cave Park. Don't miss dining at Gric, a rustic yet elegant family-run restaurant about 40 minutes from Ljubljana that has earned a Michelin star.

Columbus, Ohio.

A quick, budget-friendly summer getaway awaits you in Columbus, the heart of Ohio. While it may lack the glitz of Los Angeles or the urban vibe of New York, it compensates with its welcoming locals, family-friendly attractions, and ample outdoor activities.

Families will love the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, which features a variety of animals including polar bears, gorillas, and red pandas. Throughout the summer, enjoy live music and craft beer. For wildlife enthusiasts, The Wilds offers open-air safaris to see rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and cheetahs. Plus, the expansive 36,000-square-foot Legoland Discovery Center will captivate both children and the young at heart for hours.

Columbus also boasts fantastic breweries, diverse restaurants, various sports teams, and a charming historic German village. Recently, The Junto, a stylish independent lifestyle hotel, opened its doors, perfect for the trendy crowd. Meanwhile, Ohio State fans will adore the Ohio State-themed Graduate Columbus.

Niseko, Japan.

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is renowned for its outstanding winter sports, but that doesn’t mean it’s off-limits in the warmer months. During summer, Hokkaido transforms into an ideal destination for outdoor adventures paired with rich Japanese culture.

In Niseko, those with points and miles to spend can discover fantastic summer deals at several hotels, including the Hilton Niseko Village, Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, and the luxurious Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, which features mountain-view accommodations, a full-service spa, and a traditional Japanese onsen.

Summer visitors to Niseko can enjoy a variety of activities, such as golfing, tree trekking, canyoning, zip lining, and rafting, or take the summer gondola for breathtaking mountain views, all while indulging in delicious meals at traditional izakayas, savoring some of the freshest sushi, and experiencing intricate tea ceremonies.

Mendoza, Argentina.

Since Argentina is located in the Southern Hemisphere, its seasons are opposite to those in the U.S. Thus, the warm summer months in the States coincide with colder winter months in Argentina. While the vineyards surrounding Mendoza, the heart of Argentina's wine region, may not be in full bloom during June, July, August, or September, they still offer a pleasant experience during this time.

Although the wineries in Mendoza tend to be quieter as temperatures drop, they provide a cozy atmosphere for fireside wine tastings and insights into the country's wine industry, even if vineyard strolls are off the table. Adventurous travelers can also explore the stunning Andes through horseback riding or enjoy a day trip to nearby thermal springs.

Mendoza is home to a variety of luxury accommodations. The Hyatt features its Category 4 Park Hyatt, while the Entre Cielos Wine & Wellness Hotel, affiliated with Preferred Hotels, offers a boutique experience complete with a hammam spa. Additionally, SB Winemaker's House & Spa Suites provides vinotherapeutic spa treatments for relaxation.

For a unique experience that contrasts with Northern Hemisphere summers, embrace the snow in the mountains by planning a ski trip to Mendoza resorts such as Las Lenas and Los Penitentes.

Bozeman, Montana.

While winter attracts visitors to Bozeman for skiing, don’t overlook the city’s summer activities. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Bozeman transforms into a summer paradise, offering kayak trips on the Madison River with the Bozeman Kayak Company, white-water rafting, zip-lining, hiking, mountain biking, and fly-fishing.

In August, enhance your Western experience by attending the Bozeman Stampede, a lively rodeo featuring bull riding. If you’re looking for something more relaxing, opt for a serene horseback ride through beautiful landscapes.

The area boasts a variety of accommodations, including expansive ranches and resorts in the countryside that can arrange numerous Western-themed activities. Consider Sage Lodge in Pray, Montana (about a 50-minute drive from Bozeman) or Gallatin River Lodge (approximately 20 minutes away). There are also stylish options like the Kimpton Armory Hotel and many smaller boutique hotels in the greater Bozeman area.

Hamburg, Germany.

While Venice, Italy, is teeming with tourists during the summer, consider Hamburg, Germany, often referred to as the "Venice of the North" for its extensive canal systems that can be explored by boat.

Hamburg, Europe’s second-largest port, is a vibrant maritime city that houses the International Maritime Museum. However, it’s not the only museum worth visiting; other attractions include Miniatur Wunderland, home to the world’s largest model railway and miniature replicas of famous cities, a chocolate museum, and a variety of art museums.

In summer, Hamburg truly comes alive, particularly at its numerous beaches and beach clubs where you can relax with your toes in the sand and a drink in hand. It’s also an excellent base for day trips, with many nearby castles and historic estates, like Ludwigslust Palace. The summer season is packed with festivals, including the Spielbudenfestival in July, celebrating street performers and artists, and the International Summer Festival, which features live theater and dance performances throughout the city for three weeks in August.

As a major urban center, Hamburg offers a variety of well-known hotel brands, including Fairmont, Westin, Le Meridian, Marriott, and Autograph Collection.

Lexington, Kentucky.

You don’t need to be a horse enthusiast to appreciate the charm of the "Horse Capital of the World," which is also a fantastic summer getaway. For those who do love horses, Lexington, Kentucky, and its surroundings offer numerous opportunities to see these magnificent animals up close, including at the Kentucky Horse Park and various horse farms.

Lexington is also known for its bourbon culture, featuring several must-visit distilleries, such as James E. Pepper Distilling Co.. Not far away, you’ll find renowned distilleries like Woodford Reserve and Maker's Mark. Kentucky even boasts its own Bourbon Trail, making it easy to plan a vacation centered around touring distilleries across the state.

You may be aware that the late Queen Elizabeth II, a passionate fan of racehorses, visited several horse farms in Lexington multiple times. What you might not know is that there’s a hotel outside of Lexington housed in an actual castle, perfect for those seeking a royal experience. The Kentucky Castle features 18 rooms and offers tours. For a more urban stay, the newly opened luxury boutique hotel The Manchester is a delightful option in the heart of the city.

Next year, Lexington will mark its 250th anniversary, making now the perfect time to visit before the celebrations draw larger crowds.

Jeju Island, South Korea.

For travelers eager to explore Asia this summer, Jeju Island in South Korea offers a diverse range of experiences: vibrant city life, rich cultural activities, stunning beaches and resorts, breathtaking waterfalls, hiking and scuba diving opportunities, as well as all-terrain vehicle adventures. It’s truly a destination where you can unwind in nature by day and revel in city nightlife by evening.

A standout accommodation option is the JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, located near Seogwipo on the island's southern coast. Opened in 2023, this resort boasts modern accommodations, a stylish infinity pool, and a remarkable signature restaurant called Island Kitchen, featuring a menu of international cuisine.

In and around Seogwipo, you can embark on a trek to witness the solitary Oedolgae Rock formation rising from the ocean, snorkel along the Hwanguji Coast in natural beach pools, visit Yakcheonsa Temple (one of Asia's largest), and indulge in traditional Korean cuisine and local Jeju specialties.

Charlevoix, Quebec.

One of Canada’s most sought-after winter ski resorts transforms into a fantastic summer destination when the snow melts, replacing white powder with sandy beaches and vibrant green mountains.

Recently, Club Med launched its first all-inclusive ski resort in the region, Club Med Quebec Charlevoix, nestled within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This allows you to spend summer days hiking lush trails or biking through them, whale watching on the St. Lawrence River, horseback riding, or simply relaxing at the hotel pool or spa. With the all-inclusive model, your rates cover meals and drinks at two restaurants and three bars, ensuring you know the total cost of your vacation.

Beyond Club Med, there are several other resorts and numerous cabins and houses available for rent. Don’t miss one of the area’s top summer attractions: The Mechanical Bird at Le Massif de Charlevoix, which transforms the ski resort’s chairlifts into a spectacular light and sound display at night. Consider joining a dinner show at either the top or bottom to enhance your experience.

Dubai.

It may sound surprising, but visiting Dubai in the summer can actually be quite pleasant, especially if you plan accordingly. Many tourists tend to stay away during the hotter months, leading to significantly lower hotel rates. This means you can enjoy luxurious accommodations at world-class hotels—complete with spas, swimming pools, and even private beaches—at a fraction of the usual cost.

Dubai recognizes its scorching heat and desert climate, offering a variety of indoor activities to enjoy, such as sliding down indoor ski slopes, shopping in the expansive Dubai Mall, ascending to the top of the world’s tallest building, and scuba diving in the deepest pool globally. A day trip to Abu Dhabi for indoor roller coasters at Ferrari World is also an exciting option.

While it may not appeal to everyone, Dubai truly functions as an indoor playground with the air conditioning set to maximum.