Summer in the USA is like a buffet of wanderlust – from alpine lakes and coastal charm to national parks and city escapades; there's a dreamy destination for every kind of traveler. Whether you're seeking adventure, serenity, or just a good old American road trip, here are 17 top places you have to check out this sunny season.

1. Bar Harbor, Maine
Top Hotels in Bar Harbor, ME from $105

Perfect for seafood lovers and nature enthusiasts, Bar Harbor is your gateway to Acadia National Park. Think dramatic coastal cliffs, starry skies, and lobster rolls so fresh they taste like the sea.

Photo: unsplash.com/@dapperprofessional

2. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Top Hotels in Lake Tahoe from 80$

Calm alpine waters meet sandy shores – a rare combo! Lake Tahoe’s got hiking, paddleboarding, beach lounging, and casino nights all rolled into one.

Photo: unsplash.com/@bencarless

3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Top Hotels in Yellowstone National Park, WY

America’s first national park is a summer dream. Explore geysers, watch bison roam, and hike into wilderness wonderlands.

Photo: unsplash.com/@anuomar

4. Savannah, Georgia 
Top Hotels in Savannah from $70

Picture oak trees dripping with Spanish moss and historic charm for days. Savannah oozes slow-paced Southern summer.

Photo: unsplash.com/@tyleredic

5. Seattle, Washington 
Top Hotels in Seattle, WA Stays from $89

Seattle summers are glorious: mild temps, long days, and views of Mt. Rainier. Grab a coffee at Pike Place and ferry to Bainbridge Island.

Photo: unsplash.com/@xyy111

6. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park Hotels and Lodges

Epic hikes, turquoise lakes, and Going-to-the-Sun Road – need we say more? It’s one of the most photogenic summer spots in the USA.

Photo: unsplash.com/@the_bracketeer

7. Chicago, Illinois
Top Hotels in Chicago, IL from $68

The Windy City comes alive in summer with beaches, boat tours, rooftop bars, and food festivals galore.

Photo: unsplash.com/@dapperprofessional

8. Outer Banks, North Carolina 
Top Hotels in Outer Banks, NC from $83

Long, sandy beaches with a side of history (hello, Wright Brothers!). Rent a beach house and chill hard.

Photo: unsplash.com/@raymondkotewicz

9. Denver & Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Top hotels in Denver, CO from CA $80

Urban adventure meets mountain escape. Hike, bike, and stargaze in the Rockies, then hit Denver for breweries and live music.

Photo: unsplash.com/@acton_crawford

10. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Top hotels in Denver, CO from CA $80

Quaint villages, clam chowder, and whale watching! Cape Cod is New England summer at its finest.

Photo: unsplash.com/@fotowei

11. Zion National Park, Utah
Top Hotels Closest to Zion National Park

Hike The Narrows or Angels Landing for unforgettable thrills. Zion is red rock magic under sunny skies.

Photo: unsplash.com/@yannickmenard

12. Asheville, North Carolina
Top Hotels in Asheville, NC from $89

Arts, waterfalls, and the Blue Ridge Parkway – Asheville’s a quirky mix of outdoorsy and hipster cool.

Photo: unsplash.com/@nacio1966

13. San Diego, California
Top Hotels in San Diego, CA Stays from $99

72°F and sunny? Yes, please. Surfing, tacos, and laid-back beach towns make San Diego a summer classic.

Photo: unsplash.com/@jeisen

14. Anchorage & Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
Top Hotels in Anchorage, AK from 90$

Summer in Alaska = wildflowers, whales, and nearly 24-hour daylight. Drive the Seward Highway for jaw-dropping views.

Photo: unsplash.com/@traveleroohlala

15. New York City, New York
Top Hotels in New York, NY from $140

Summer in the city means rooftop bars, outdoor movies in Bryant Park, and fun at Coney Island. The energy is next-level.

Photo: unsplash.com/@toddquackenbush

16. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Top 10 Hotels in Mackinac Island, MI

No cars allowed – just horses, bikes, and fudge. It’s like stepping back in time with gorgeous lake views.

Photo: unsplash.com/@leahhetteberg

17. Sedona, Arizona
Top Hotels in Sedona, AZ from $60

Yes, it’s hot – but the red rock beauty is unmatched, and early mornings are perfect for hikes and yoga with a view.

Photo: unsplash.com/@jamesamolnar