Best Travel Destinations This Summer in the U.S.

Summer is meant for vacations, whether your ideal trip involves a big city, nature, national parks, small-town getaway, or relaxing on a beach. Deciding the best summer vacation can include several factors including affordability, weather, and interests.

Here is a list of the best travel destinations in the U.S. for you and your family this summer in 2024.

Miami, Florida

If you are looking for a big city, a place to relax, premier beaches, and parties then Miami is the place for you! Early summer is a great time to visit Miami because the climate has low humidity and temperatures around 80 degrees. Flights, hotels, and rentals are typically cheaper in the summer than during peak winter months, so your budget might stretch further than expected. However, it is Florida in the summer, so make sure to pack an umbrella.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the United States, especially during the summer. If you love rock coastlines, scenic views, fresh seafood, craft beer, and a beautiful lighthouse than Portland is the place for you! If you are considering visiting, during June, July, and August the temperatures are around 75 degrees with cool breezes. While you are visiting don’t forget to stop at the Portland Head Light, the most photographed lighthouse in the United States. If you love seeing wildlife, you can also go whale watching in Casco Bay.

New York, New York

One of the most popular destinations every year is New York City. During the summer, the Big Apple is the perfect travel destination because of its warm weather and easy access to the city by bus, train, or walking. You will have an abundant number of options for things to do, depending on if you’re a first visitor. Enjoy the sights in Coney Island, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, Williamsburg, Columbus Circle, Central Park, the Rockefeller Center, and some many others. Don’t forget to check out a Broadway show while you’re there!

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Nature lovers flock to Yellowstone National Park each summer to watch all of its awe-inspiring sights. Get ready to see Old Faithful, hike through extensive nature, gaze at the Grand Prismatic Springs, and maybe spot some wildlife. The National Park has a few options for living space including camping, trailers, lodges, and local hotels. Keep in mind, that Yellowstone is very big and spans from Montana to Idaho to Wyoming. So make sure you plan enough time around your trip to see everything. If you love nature, consider stopping by Glacier National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the Grand Canyon National Park, all of which are within driving range of each other.

Great Smokey Mountains National Park, Tennessee

The Great Smokey Mountains National Park is an affordable summer getaway that is perfect for nature lovers. The National Park only requires a small entry fee but has sights of impressive waterfalls, top-notch fishing, scenic views, and exciting hiking trails. The Great Smokey Mountains are near big tourist cities like Pigeon Forge, so consider stopping there for some tourist fun. Pigeon Forge is home to Dollywood, the theme park created by country music legend Dolly Parton. There are also local go-cart tracks, waterparks, museums, mountain roller-coasters, and local food markets.

There are so many great travel destinations in the United States, but these are some of our favorites. Where are you traveling to this summer?