5 U.S. Summer Travel Destinations

Summer (June through September) is a great time to travel, with plenty of options in the United States you can visit! Most top destinations have moved past their spring crowds and welcome the more relaxed (albeit hotter and possibly wetter) atmosphere. But with a little planning and some research, you can make the best out of your time off and we can help with our piece – 5 U.S. Summer Travel Destinations. Read on to learn about the top suggestions for summer locations in 2021, including national parks, vibrant cities, and quiet beach towns.

**We’ve held a few of these travel blogs specifically because of the impact of the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic. While most of the information remains relevant, we highly encourage you to call ahead and check what (if any) restrictions or limited services are in place within the areas we suggest. Also, check out our blog on Trusted Traveler Programs that will help you navigate airports!**

1. San Francisco, CA

This city in northern California, situated on the Pacific west coast in the San Francisco Bay area, is recognized for its eclectic buildings, cable cars, rolling hills, and the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf. San Francisco is a commercial and cultural hub and labeled a global city, or key to the global economy. The area receives tens of millions of visitors, (25 million in 2016) who flock to the music, film and culinary experiences the city offers.

When in the summer to visit:

September. According to a U.S. News travel review, September and later months are warmer, less inclement weather, and have less crowds than in peak season.

What to do in San Francisco in the Summer:

There really is a multitude of sight-seeing opportunities and activities to keep you busy during your visit. With so much to see, opt for guided tours and excursions so you don’t have to focus your attention on navigating your surroundings rather than enjoying them. Some key spots for you to consider:

• Spend some time on the bay for a fresh perspective of the city. In San Francisco, you may go on a variety of boat trips, including sunset cruises, sailing excursions, and even boat tours to Alcatraz. (Book early, these tours sell out quickly.)
• Cross the Golden Gate Bridge, one of San Francisco’s most recognizable emblems.
• Visit Muir Woods for a day. You may explore woods filled with beautiful redwood trees over 300 feet tall and 1,000 years old in approximately 40 minutes by automobile.
• Alternatively, travel to Napa and sample some of the region’s incredible wine. So you don’t have to worry about driving, hire a full-day Napa and Sonoma trip.

2. Portland, ME

Maine is a wonderful place to visit during the summer, with scenic coastlines and welcoming, coastal towns to explore. Portland is the most populous town in Maine at over 66 thousand, and as such the area boasts an established cultural arts program, renown seafood dining, and energetic nightlife. The temperature is still relatively cool and mild, the participation is at the lowest during this time, so your stay should be rather enjoyable.

When in the summer to visit:

June to August This is a peak season so expect some crowds, but be ready for the outdoor festivals. Book your hotel early and get your excursion itineraries planned before you go and you should be able to enjoy your time.

What to do in Portland in the Summer:

The scenery in Maine in summer is exceptional and whatever you do, plan on exploring the coastline and walk on the open beaches. Many of the well-known destinations are a short drive from each other, but while in Portland check out the favorites:

• Old Port – the center of Portland with historic architecture and cobblestone streets. Here you’ll find shopping, art gallery’s, theaters  and a plethora of restaurants, all within walking distance.
• Portland Museum of Art – an excellent day-long activity that offers American, European and local art collections.
• As we said about the variety of restaurants, make sure and check the city’s microbreweries, many of which offer tours.
• If you’d like to visit a quintessential small, seaside, Maine town while you’re close, take the short 20 minute drive to Kennebunkport.

3. Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

Rocky Mountain National Park is worth visiting all year, with hearty and pristine forests, clear alpine lakes and cool, crisp, summer weather. The park encompasses over 250,000 acres and soaring peaks of over 12 thousand feet. Indigenous wildlife like as elk, mountain goats, and bears can be found in this national park, scattered about the 350 miles of trails. (You can find more informational blogs about visiting and hiking our national parks in our continuing series here.)

When in the summer to visit:

June to September – This is peak season because the winter snows, for the most part, have melted. It is the highest point for rain, but temperatures are mild and average between 70 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

What to do in RMNP in the Summer:

• Obviously, your time at RMNP will be a chance to commune with nature, so explore the many hiking trails and take in the natural ecosystems.
• Drive the Trail Ridge Road for the greatest views of the park. This road ascends to the full 12,000 foot peaks.
• Riding a horse in the park is a great way to see the sights. There are two horse stables within RMNP where you can rent a horse and a guide for the day.
• Spend some time in Estes Park, which is close by. It’s a terrific place to “basecamp” from and enjoy it’s full complement of restaurants, cafes, and stores.

4. New Orleans, LA

New Orleans is known around the world for its vibrant and diverse culture, which includes everything from Mardi Gras celebrations to rich Creole cuisine to the unique nightlife and music scene. Whether you’re drinking a Sazerac in the French Quarter or cramming your cheeks with beignets from Cafe Du Monde, every night in New Orleans is a celebration.

When in the summer to visit:

June to September – Just remember this is not peak celebration season as Mardi Gras happens in February. But excellent hotel deals can be found and there is always something happening in NOLA. The temperature is hotter in summer, expect an average of about 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

What to do in NOLA in the Summer:

• If you’re in New Orleans, then bring your appetite. Restaurant week starts mid-June and the area restaurants are on full display.
• Just because it’s not Mardi Gras doesn’t mean the nightlife stops. For the adventurous soul, Bourbon Street still parties to the early morning hours.
• Embark on a spooky pub crawl and take in the many famous haunted locations, stopping for a drink at each stop along the route (thank you, open container laws).
• For some live music, go to Frenchman Street. Summer nights in New Orleans are pleasant and balmy, making it simple to enjoy some impromptu music on the street.

Book your priceline Flight today, Best Price Guaranteed!

5. Nashville, TN

Nashville, Tennessee is a southern music mecca, particularly for country music, and a foodie festival haven for the hungry. Summer is the finest time to visit Nashville since you can take advantage of all that the city has to offer as well as some of the surrounding natural beauty.

When in the summer to visit:

April to October, so that fits nicely in our June through September months. Summer temperatures average in the high 80s and the precipitation numbers are at the lowest.

What to do in Nashville in the Summer:

• Can we say live music? Yes. Yes, we can. Nashville is the city built on music, so your stay here should include visits to the top-draws like the Grand Ole Opry House and the Country Music Hall of Fame. But for the full flavor of local talent, make the Honky Tonk Highway (Lower Broadway) your first stop.
• Check out one of the many museums like the Frist Art Museum and cultural arts events such the First Saturday Art Crawl.
• Take a guided tour of the city in the comfort of a bus, a Segway and even walking tours with knowledgeable and friendly tour guides.

Final Thoughts on 5 U.S. Summer Travel Destinations

Just because it’s hot doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of summer travel. Deals on hotels and vacations packages are easy to find and the scenery will be at its peak. If you haven’t been to one of the spots we’ve listed, make it a bucket list checkbox and plan your vacation now!

We hope the information in our piece – 5 U.S. Summer Travel Destinations, can help you with an informed decision when planning your vacation. Be sure to check out some of our other domestic travel  pieces like The Five Best U.S. Staycation Spots A Beginner’s Guide to hiking our National Parks or Four Great Reasons to Visit National Parks.

As always, if you need something you can’t find here, reach out to us through the Contact page or leave a comment below. Please use our approved affiliate links to explore the options available to you, we appreciate you support!