Discover the 10 best places in the U.S. for summer travel! This guide covers top destinations for your next sunny vacation, from beach getaways to national parks.

Traveling during the summer is like a rite of passage for many families, couples, and solo adventurers. With longer days, school breaks, and a calendar packed with events, summer in the U.S. opens up a treasure trove of destinations. Whether you dream of sandy shores, cool mountain breezes, or vibrant city streets, something magical is waiting for you.

In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best places in the U.S. for summer travel, perfect for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both.

1. Maui, Hawaii
Top Hotels in Maui, HI from $263

Maui is the ultimate island escape for summer travelers. Its swaying palms, turquoise waters, and aloha spirit deliver an authentic tropical paradise experience.

Best Things to Do in Maui During Summer

Drive the Road to Hana: A scenic route filled with waterfalls, cliffs, and rainforests.

Snorkeling at Molokini Crater: Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park: Watch the sun rise above the clouds at 10,000 feet.

Attend a Traditional Luau: Enjoy Hawaiian food, music, and hula dancing.

Beach Days: Relax at Ka’anapali, Wailea, or Napili Bay.

Tip: Book early, as Maui, is a popular summer destination, and accommodations fill up fast!

Photo: unsplash.com/@alisby

2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Top 10 Hotels in Yellowstone National Park, WY from $85

Yellowstone is nature’s wonderland, especially in summer when all the roads and trails are open.

Summer Travel Tips for Yellowstone

Spot Wildlife: Watch for bears, elk, wolves, and bison at dawn or dusk.

Explore Geothermal Wonders: Gaze at Old Faithful, colorful hot springs, and bubbling mud pots.

Hiking Trails: Choose from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks.

Camp Under the Stars: Reserve your campsite early—spots go quickly.

Avoid the Crowds: Visit popular spots early in the morning or later in the evening.

Don't forget your bear spray and layered clothing—temperatures can vary drastically!

Photo: unsplash.com/@anuomar

3. San Diego, California
Top Hotels in San Diego, CA from $95

With near-perfect weather year-round, San Diego shines even brighter in the summer.

What Makes San Diego a Top Summer Spot

La Jolla Cove: Snorkel with sea lions or just enjoy the stunning cliff views.

San Diego Zoo: A must-see for families—home to over 12,000 animals.

Gaslamp Quarter: Packed with restaurants, shops, and vibrant nightlife.

Beach Life: Surf at Pacific Beach, relax at Coronado, or enjoy boardwalk fun at Mission Beach.

Summer Events: Don’t miss Comic-Con or the Del Mar horse races.

San Diego is laid-back, fun, and great for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

Photo: unsplash.com/@caroline_ross

4. Charleston, South Carolina
Top Hotels in Charleston, SC, from $85

Charleston offers the best of both worlds, a mix of historic charm and beachy relaxation.

Hidden Gems in Charleston

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens: One of the oldest public gardens in America.

Folly Beach: A chilled-out surf town just 20 minutes from downtown.

Charleston City Market: Shop for local crafts, sweetgrass baskets, and snacks.

Historic District: Walk cobblestone streets and marvel at antebellum architecture.

Lowcountry Cuisine: Try shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and hush puppies.

Charleston’s slow pace and Southern hospitality make it an ideal summer getaway.

Photo: unsplash.com/@leoheisenberg

5. Glacier National Park, Montana
Top 10 Hotels in Glacier Park, MT

Glacier National Park is a dream come true for nature lovers. It offers cool temperatures and jaw-dropping landscapes and is less crowded than other national parks.

Top Activities in Glacier National Park

Going-to-the-Sun Road: Drive this iconic route for some of the best views in North America.

Grinnell Glacier Hike: One of the park’s most beautiful and challenging hikes.

Boat Tours on Lake McDonald: Relax and take in the mountainous scenery.

Wildlife Watching: Look out for mountain goats, moose, and grizzly bears.

Ranger-led Programs: Learn about the park’s geology, history, and ecosystems.

Glacier’s alpine air and rugged terrain make it the perfect cool-down destination for summer adventurers.

Photo: unsplash.com/@hans_isaacson

6. New York City, New York
Top Hotels in New York, NY, from $243

New York City in summer is electric—filled with energy, events, and endless possibilities.

Summer Events in NYC You Can't-Miss

SummerStage in Central Park: Free concerts featuring local and global artists.

Shakespeare in the Park: Watch classic plays at the Delacorte Theater under the stars.

Outdoor Movies: Bryant Park and other venues offer movie nights on the lawn.

Fourth of July Fireworks: Macy’s fireworks light up the city skyline.

Rooftop Bars & Dining: Sip cocktails with panoramic views of the Big Apple.

From iconic landmarks to quiet escapes like the High Line, NYC offers a dynamic summer experience.

Photo: unsplash.com/@jacobybrandon

7. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Top Hotels in Lake Tahoe from $54

Straddling two states, Lake Tahoe is a high-altitude gem perfect for summer fun.

What to Do at Lake Tahoe in Summer

Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Enjoy clear blue waters and stunning mountain backdrops.

Hiking Trails: Try Eagle Lake, Mount Tallac, or the Tahoe Rim Trail.

Bike Rides: Scenic paths around the lake and in nearby forests.

Beaches: Sand Harbor is ideal for swimming and picnicking.

Stargazing: With little light pollution, it’s a prime spot to watch the Milky Way.

Lake Tahoe’s cool temperatures and endless outdoor activities make it a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

Photo: unsplash.com/@rocinante_11

8. Asheville, North Carolina
Top Hotels in Asheville, NC, from $80

This artsy, laid-back mountain town offers both cultural flair and natural beauty.

Asheville's Best Summer Experiences

Explore the Biltmore Estate: America’s largest home offers tours, wine tastings, and gardens.

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway: Scenic overlooks, waterfalls and hiking trails abound.

Waterfalls and Swimming Holes: Discover hidden gems like Sliding Rock and Looking Glass Falls.

Craft Breweries: Asheville boasts one of the highest brewery counts per capita.

Summer Festivals: Enjoy the LEAF Downtown Music Festival and street art fairs.

It’s a perfect destination for foodies, artists, and outdoor lovers.

Photo: unsplash.com/@nacio1966

9. Seattle, Washington
Top Hotels in Seattle, WA, from $106

Mild weather and beautiful scenery make Seattle a hidden summer gem.

How to Enjoy Seattle in the Summer

Pike Place Market: Stroll through fresh produce, seafood, and handmade goods.

Ferry Rides: Take a scenic ferry to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton.

Space Needle & Chihuly Garden: Iconic views and stunning glass art.

Music and Arts Festivals: Check out Capitol Hill Block Party and Seattle Art Fair.

Day Trips: Explore Mt. Rainier, Olympic National Park, or nearby wine country.

Seattle’s summer is short but sweet—don’t forget your sunglasses and a light jacket!

Photo: unsplash.com/@squidward222

10. Grand Canyon, Arizona
Top Hotels in Grand Canyon, AZ, from $59

One of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, the Grand Canyon is breathtaking in summer.

Best Ways to Explore the Grand Canyon in Summer

Sunrise or Sunset Hikes: Watch the canyon light up in brilliant colors.

Rafting on the Colorado River: An unforgettable adventure through the canyon's heart.

South Rim Trail Walks: Paved paths with scenic viewpoints like Mather Point.

Helicopter Tours: See the canyon from above for a truly unique perspective.

Visitor Centers and Museums: Learn about the geology, history, and Native cultures.

Summer can be hot, especially at the bottom of the canyon—start hikes early and stay hydrated!

Photo: unsplash.com/@andres_09