Top Summer Destinations in the U.S.: From National Parks to Urban Retreats and Scenic Lakes

This summer, the best spots in the U.S. invite you to enjoy life’s simple pleasures: live music in the warm breeze, sun-soaked hikes, and refreshing swims in lakes.

With rising temperatures, the country’s natural beauty and vibrant culture shine brightly. Experience the West’s breathtaking landscapes, bathed in stunning sunsets, and easily explore the historic sites along the Eastern coastline. Here’s where your summer adventures await.

Top National Parks to Explore in the U.S. This Summer

These national parks truly shine during summer vacations in the U.S.

1. Glacier National Park, Montana

In the remote northern expanse of Montana, where conditions can be extreme, facilities and attractions at Glacier National Park generally operate from June through September. Summer presents the best opportunity for hiking in pleasant weather. Glacier boasts over 700 miles of hiking trails and countless alpine lakes framed by waterfalls and mountains.

Though chilly, a visit in July or August might allow for a refreshing swim, just as my family and I experienced one summer, followed by watching the sunset from the porch of the Many Glacier Hotel with a huckleberry margarita in hand.

2. Zion National Park, Utah

The Virgin River flows through Utah's Zion National Park, which is famous for its towering 1,000-foot-tall pink sandstone walls. The Narrows, the tightest section of Zion Canyon, can be treacherous in spring due to high water levels, but in summer, you can wade through the refreshing waters.

Although Zion lies in Utah's high desert, the carved canyons remain pleasantly cool. I went canyoneering in Zion's Mystery Canyon in August and still found it necessary to wear a wetsuit to stay warm. It's a popular spot, so plan ahead to avoid crowds.

Rise early to hike Angel's Landing or visit Weeping Rock, and explore the quieter trails of the Zion Wilderness, like the Subway, which requires a permit and prior canyoneering experience.

3. Acadia National Park, Maine

Maine stands out as one of the top summer destinations. Acadia National Park is a true gem within the national park system. With water all around, steep hiking trails, and fishing villages featuring charming inns and eateries serving the freshest lobster rolls, it’s a must-visit. Summer highlights include witnessing the powerful waves at Thunder Hole, biking the Carriage Roads—a network of paths established by John D. Rockefeller between 1913 and 1940—and hiking up Cadillac Mountain. As the highest point on the East Coast, it's the first place in the U.S. to catch the sunrise from October to March, but summer sunrises and sunsets along the coast are breathtaking. After a hike, refresh in Echo Lake and enjoy lobster at Beale's Lobster Pier in Southwest Harbor.

4. Yellowstone National Park, Montana

Known as the world's first national park, Yellowstone National Park is a true gem in the national park system and is extremely popular.

This expansive park, built atop a volcanic hotspot, encompasses nearly 3,500 square miles of wilderness, featuring dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, verdant forests, hot springs, and geysers, making it a delight to visit in June, July, and August. Just be sure to book your campsites and accommodations in advance.

I highly recommend camping at the Madison River campground and taking a stroll during golden hour to capture stunning photos and enjoy swimming in the river, which is pleasantly warm in certain areas due to thermal activity—making it one of the best summer destinations in the U.S.

Top family vacation spots to explore during summer in the U.S.

Families will discover endless summer enjoyment in these locations. Looking for additional recommendations tailored for kids? Check out these exciting summer family vacation ideas, both at home and abroad.

5. Bend, Oregon

The mountain town of Bend is known as Oregon's summer playground. Surrounded by rivers and mountains, it offers plentiful opportunities for fly fishing, hiking, and mountain biking. During the summer months, families flock to the Deschutes River, which flows right through the heart of the town.

At the Bend Whitewater Park, families can float down the Fish Ladder, a series of small rapids on inner tubes, or adventurous souls can surf the Whitewater Channel, featuring four waves in the center of the river. More thrill-seeking families can embark on white-water rafting adventures on the Deschutes or fish for trout in the sparkling Fall River. The outdoor Hayden Homes Amphitheater on the river hosts amazing performances, while downtown Bend offers a variety of restaurants, breweries, and wine bars.

6. Santa Barbara, California

While San Diego often garners praise for its family-friendly atmosphere, Santa Barbara, known as America's Riviera, stands out as one of the most family-friendly destinations on the West Coast and an excellent summer vacation choice in the U.S. It features a children's museum, a natural history museum, an aquarium where guests can interact with small sharks and other marine life, and a compact but impressive zoo with engaging exhibits like the Australian Walkabout, where you can feel surrounded by kangaroos and wallabies.

Recently recognized as a Whale World Heritage Area, the Santa Barbara Channel offers some of the most responsible and exciting whale-watching tours in the U.S. The waters, teeming with marine life, attract a diverse range of whale species, including orcas and minkes. In summer, you can spot gray whales, humpbacks, and blue whales. Staying at the Moroccan-inspired Hotel Californian allows easy access to many of Santa Barbara's main attractions.

7. Jackson, Wyoming

Equally picturesque in summer as in winter, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has made significant investments to establish itself as a year-round destination. Starting in June each year, ski slopes give way to via ferrata routes. Jackson offers numerous assisted climbing paths, featuring ladders and rungs secured to the rocks, weaving along rugged cliff faces with breathtaking alpine views.

Families can reserve guided excursions (open to kids aged 10 and older), catering to skill levels from beginners to seasoned climbers. The town of Jackson boasts upscale boutiques, charming bakeries, and a sophisticated Western atmosphere. Just north of Jackson lies the entrance to Grand Teton National Park, where summer visitors can enjoy scenic drives or hikes around Jenny Lake.

8. Sag Harbor, New York

Long Island boasts unforgettable summer spots from West Hampton to Montauk, but my personal favorite is Sag Harbor. This historic whaling port, established in 1745, features charming Victorian homes and a bustling Main Street where general stores stand alongside art galleries and upscale boutiques. Haven's Beach is publicly accessible and offers calm, warm waters.

There’s a floating dock where children enjoy collecting shells and searching for horseshoe crabs. Arrange for a sitter and dine at the American Hotel, which boasts one of the finest wine cellars in the country. After a day filled with beach fun and berry picking, take a stroll on the Sag Harbor pier and treat yourself to a scoop of mint chocolate chip at the classic ice cream shop Big Olaf. It’s cash-only, but summer vacations in the U.S. have never been sweeter.

Top cities to explore during summer in the U.S.

These U.S. cities come alive during the summer months.

9. Portland, Oregon

Portland derives its lush greens—emerald treetops, vibrant moss, and earthy ferns—from the plentiful rain it receives during the winter and spring. By the 4th of July, the rain usually gives way, and the entire city emerges to celebrate. Festivals take place along the waterfront all summer, beginning with the Waterfront Blues Festival on the first weekend of July. Outdoor dining areas fill up (try the bubbling wood-fired pizzas at Café Olli, seasonal dishes at Coquine, or wood-fired steaks at Ox), making it easy to enjoy the outdoors all day long.

Stroll through the Rose Gardens or Japanese Gardens in Washington Park, or take a drive to the Columbia River Gorge. Along this scenic route, enjoy hikes among cool trees and waterfalls, providing a refreshing escape from the heat. The interior design of the new Ritz-Carlton Portland pays homage to the region’s natural beauty, featuring a rose petal-inspired spa and carpets reminiscent of flowing rivers.

10. Denver, Colorado

The Mile High City truly comes alive in the summer with live music at venues such as Fiddlers Green and Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. The former, located just ten miles southwest of downtown, resembles a national park, with its angled red rocks forming a natural amphitheater. This venue also hosts various activities, including yoga sessions and sunrise hikes.

Denver's outdoor areas provide breathtaking views as the sunset bathes the Rocky Mountains in a soft pink hue. The city serves as a gateway to countless adventures in the mountain range, including white-water rafting, hiking, and rock climbing.

11. Memphis, Tennessee

Summer in Memphis can be warm, with temperatures averaging around 80ºF, but it remains comfortable. The Juneteenth Festival marks the unofficial start of summer, featuring a freedom walk, a run, and live music. Tom Lee Park, inspired by the ecological characteristics of the Mississippi River, features a 20,000-square-foot Civic Canopy that provides a shaded area for recreation and events, along with pathways for runners, cyclists, and walkers.

Beyond visiting Graceland, explore the waterways. Mississippi River Expeditions offers guided tours from Shelby Forest State Park to Downtown Memphis, including overnight and multi-day river adventures. Dinogo Memphis provides Mytour and paddleboard rentals from the riverfront harbor in Downtown Memphis.

12. Portland, Maine

The alternate Portland is equally enchanting in summer, especially for those who cherish salty sea breezes. The Portland Schooner Co. offers journeys through Casco Bay aboard classic wooden boats, a true emblem of Maine's coastal traditions. Exploring Portland Harbor may reveal stunning views of lighthouses, vibrant wildlife, and island stops such as Fort Gorges, a Civil War-era fortress located just off the East End. Thompson's Point is a picturesque outdoor venue for concerts, and mid-June brings Portland Wine Week, featuring tastings, seminars, and wine dinners led by the city’s top chefs and sommeliers. The Portland Art Museum, which houses an extensive collection of American art, hosts Free Fridays throughout the summer.

13. Chicago, IL

Millennium Park comes alive in the summer, with film and music festivals lighting up the weekends. Chicago boasts miles of inviting lakefront beaches, perfect for warm summer days. Join a spirited game of beach volleyball at North Avenue Beach or enjoy the lively atmosphere at Foster Beach with families playing and splashing about.

Chicago features numerous rooftop bars with stunning views, such as London House. Located on the 22nd floor of the LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton, it offers breathtaking sights of the Chicago skyline and the famous Magnificent Mile. Additionally, the city's many attractions, including the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Shedd Aquarium, make for an unforgettable summer getaway in Chicago.

Top lake destinations to explore during summer in the US

Immerse yourself in lake life and savor the great outdoors at these remarkable spots.

14. Hilton Head Island, SC

Summer days on Hilton Head Island in the Lowcountry can range from leisurely to exhilarating. If you prefer peaceful beach moments, this barrier island between Savannah and Charleston offers 12 miles of pristine beaches perfect for tide pooling and swimming, enjoying delightful warm and sunny weather.

The island features over 60 miles of bicycle trails, top-notch golf courses, and tennis and racquet clubs. Hilton Head's charm lies in its limited development—Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a 605-acre haven with hiking paths and a fishing pond, yet it’s also enjoyable to visit Harbour Town for shopping, dining on fresh seafood, and viewing the iconic candy-cane striped lighthouse.

15. Sandpoint, ID

In the Idaho Panhandle, the clear blue lakes are perfect for summer fun, including Lake Coeur d'Alene and Priest Lake. My favorite, where my family has spent summers for over a decade, is Lake Pend Oreille. As Idaho's largest lake, it buzzes with life in summer as families return to their lakeside homes to soak up the sun and water.

The lake is expansive enough that even at peak season, water skiing and wakeboarding remain undisturbed by other boats. There are multiple public access points and beaches, such as Sandpoint City Beach Park, with hotels like the Lodge at Sandpoint located right by the water. Sandpoint offers breweries, ice cream shops, and eateries to discover, along with a fantastic summer concert series called the Festival at Sandpoint.

16. Lake Tahoe, CA

For adults eager to relive their summer camp memories, South Lake Tahoe is the perfect destination. The Camp Richardson Historic Resort & Marina on the South Shore is nestled in an ancient forest, featuring various buildings including a general store and an ice cream parlor.

Visitors can choose to stay in a charming hotel from 1926 with wooden beam ceilings or in rustic cabins equipped with gas fireplaces. Camp Richardson boasts a swimming beach and a marina where boats, Jet Skis, Dinogos, and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent. Next door, the Tallac Historic Site showcases the summer estates built by California’s elite in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The 35-foot Rum Runner yacht offers daily cruises from the marina to Emerald Bay, a stunning blue-green inlet embraced by state parkland. No matter where you stay by the lake, you can expect breathtaking Sierra sunsets and clear skies ideal for stargazing.

17. The Adirondacks, NY

The Adirondack Mountains in Northeastern New York are dotted with numerous lakes, ponds, and rivers. In summer, the landscape transforms into a lush green paradise, offering plenty of adventure. Climbing Blue Mountain in the southern Adirondacks rewards you with stunning views of forests and lakes. Secure a camping spot on the sandy beaches of Lake Champlain, where large Valcour Island serves as a Bird Conservation Area. The region also hides many secret swimming holes. After a day of exploration, treat yourself to a visit to a local brewery or a trip to a village farmers market for fresh tomatoes, crunchy kale, and artisanal cheese. It's easy to see why wealthy New Yorkers flocked here to build their “Great Camps” in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

18. Wolfeboro, NH

Looking for a summer escape from the heat? Just two hours from Boston, Wolfeboro is nestled on Lake Winnipesaukee, a sprawling 72-square-mile lake at the foot of the White Mountains. With air temperatures averaging a comfortable 80°F and crisp lake waters, summer visitors enjoy sunset swims at Brewster Beach or ice cream treats at the seasonal Wolfeboro Dockside Grille & Dairy Bar. Cruising on Lake Winnipesaukee is a cherished tradition, with the M/S Mount Washington offering dinner tours since 1872. The Pickering House Inn, a former homestead, embodies classic New England charm and hospitality.

How these destinations were selected

As a seasoned travel writer with roots on the West Coast and experience on the East Coast, I’ve explored countless destinations in between. Some of the most stunning places are surprisingly close to home. Among my favorite summer adventures are road trips with my husband and our two boys through Washington, Idaho, and Montana, along with camping excursions in Acadia National Park.