19 Amazing Places To Visit In July In The USA

I discovered that summer is the perfect time to explore, from lively city breaks to Insta-worthy landscapes. After living in the USA for years, I handpicked my favorite July destinations for their beauty, events, and summer charm….

1. Finger Lakes, New York State

This month delivered everything I could have wished for in a gorgeous Finger Lakes getaway — warm, sunny days were perfect for swimming and kayaking and the gorge trails were alive with greenery and pretty wildflowers. I loved the relaxed vacation vibe and the buzzy events – the lively Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival and the upbeat Finger Lakes Wine Festival made the region feel even more special.

I drove five hours from New York and based myself at the charming 4-star Mirbeau Inn & Spa for two weeks spending my days hiking, sipping award-winning Rieslings on the quaint Seneca Lake Wine Trail, dining in cozy farm-to-table spots, admiring Ithaca’s historic brownstones and sampling a peppery Cabernet Franc at the rustic-chic Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard.

Location: Upstate New York, Northeastern US | Vibe: scenic, artsy and rustic | Avg temp: 18°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at the award-winning F.L.X. Table — I loved the intimate, open-kitchen vibe, the fresh air from their high-tech purification system, and the homey Apple Dessert also creatively made with smoky eggplant, tahini, caramel, and crunchy almonds!

2. Bar Harbor, Maine

July turned Bar Harbor into the ultimate seaside escape for me — warm, sunny days with just a few cool breezes made it ideal for outdoor adventures, and it was peak whale-watching season! I adored how the town came alive with summer events such as the patriotic Bar Harbor Fourth of July Celebration and the free Seaside Cinema movie nights under the stars.

I drove four hours from Boston and spent five blissful days hiking to the majestic Cadillac Mountain at sunrise, biking the shady Carriage Roads in Insta-worthy Acadia National Park, spotting whales in the harbor-dotted Frenchman Bay, and dining al fresco along the charming waterfront.

Location: northeastern Maine, northeastern US | Vibe: charming coastal town | Avg temp: 15°C to 27°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the wonderful upscale 4-star Bluenose Inn — my romantic room had a cozy fireplace and stunning views over Frenchman Bay, and I loved unwinding with their unique Maine Sea Stone Massage at the attentive onsite spa!

3. Olympic National Park, Washington

Mid-summer gave me the dream conditions to explore Olympic National Park — the sunniest, driest days meant I could hike, kayak, and watch magical Pacific sunsets without worrying about rain or snow. The park was bursting with life, from lush rainforests to Hurricane Ridge’s subalpine meadows covered in colorful wildflowers, and the clear skies made it a perfect month for camping under the stars.

I drove just over three hours from Seattle and spent four incredible days hiking wildflower-lined trails at Hurricane Ridge, wandering the driftwood-strewn sands of Rialto Beach, exploring the mossy Hoh Rain Forest, and soaking in the soothing Sol Duc Hot Springs. I have to mention — the park is vast, and travel times between areas can be long, so I focused on one region per day to make the most of my visit!

Location: northwestern Washington, Pacific Northwest | Vibe: wild, remote, and peaceful | Avg temp: 21°C to 29°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the 1920s characterful 4-star Lake Quinault Lodge – I loved hearing that FDR stayed here in 1937, and sipping a Finnriver Black Currant Cider by the crackling locally sourced river rock fireplace!

4. Yachats, Oregon

Stopping in Yachats was one of the best choices of my July coastal road trip — mild weather, long daylight hours, and the driest days of the year made it ideal for hiking attractive trails, exploring tide pools, and enjoying stunning oceanfront dining without the big-city crowds. I also enjoyed the festive buzz from the quirky July 4th La De Da Parade with its fireworks over the Yachats River and the lively weekly Farmers Market.

I drove just under 3.5 hours south from Portland and spent four dreamy days walking the scenic 804 Trail with its dramatic ocean views and marveling at the mesmerizing Thor’s Well, the famous “bottomless” ocean sinkhole. In between adventures, I sipped on a bold Saison de Yachats at the award-winning Yachats Brewing + Farm Store, and chatted with friendly locals who told me the best clambake dates and insider tips! 

Location: Central Oregon coast, Pacific Northwest | Vibe: cozy, creative, and relaxed  | Avg temp: 11.7°C to 19°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the stunningly-located Overleaf Lodge & Spa — I loved the chic decor, ocean-view balcony, relaxing Sea Stone Massage, and curling up with The Salt Path from the cozy onsite library!

5. Geneva-on-the-lake, Ohio

I couldn’t have picked a better time for a retro-style escape – long, sunny days made it ideal for lounging on the beach, enjoying classic boardwalk fun, and making the most of the water activities. I loved the buzzy summer vibe with events like the festive Fourth of July parade, outdoor concerts, fireworks, and the Wine & Walleye Festival with its fresh local food and regional wines also took place this month.

I flew into Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, drove an hour east, and spent a blissful week at the boutique-style Lakehouse Inn, swimming at Geneva State Park Beach, tasting the locally famous cake-style Peanut Donuts from Madsen Donuts, and wine tasting at the romantic Laurello Winery and the quirky Old Firehouse Winery. I adored strolling the nostalgic Strip, lined with retro diners, arcades, and old-school charm — it felt like stepping back in time to summer holidays of the past! 

Location: Northeastern Ohio, Midwest USA | Vibe: classic seaside town | Avg temp: 20°C to 27°C

My highlights…

• Lunch at the upscale Horizons Restaurant & Lounge – I loved the lake views, crackling fireplace, and the standout Sangria & Watermelon Salad with its tangy Ferrante sangria vinaigrette.

6. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Taking a short summer vacation here turned out to be an awesome decision— long, sunny days and warm temperatures made it ideal for kayaking its maze of shimmering lakes, swimming off secluded islands, hiking, and ending the day under starry skies. The park was beautiful and photogenic, and I loved spotting active wildlife from loons and nesting bald eagles to swimming otters and even a black bear!

I flew into Duluth, drove three hours, and camped at the forest-framed Kabetogama Lake Campground for a peaceful long weekend, hiking the remote-feeling Kabetogama Lake and Black Bay Trails, paddling quiet coves, taking a guided boat tour, and exploring the fascinating remains of the Little American Gold Mine on its tiny island.

Location: Northern Minnesota, Midwest USA | Vibe: Remote water-filled wilderness | Avg temp: 17°C to 28°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the remote 1913 Kettle Falls Hotel was an adventure — I loved its authentically rustic decor, the faint pine scent in the air, the frontier-like vibe, the creaky wooden floor and being able to literally see Canada across the water!

7. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston made an incredible summer city break — I found the warm, sunny weather was perfect for wandering its historic streets, dining al fresco, and enjoying the parks and harbors. I loved how the city buzzed with events like the spectacular Fourth of July fireworks over the Charles River, the week-long Boston Harborfest celebrating maritime history, and the creative Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival.

I flew into Logan International Airport and spent three lively days at the funky Verb Hotel and spent it walking the historic Freedom Trail, relaxing in the tree-lined Boston Common, grazing my way through the touristy but fun Quincy Market, whale watching from Boston Harbor (prime season is May–October), and sipping on a Cloud Nine Martini at the Apex Rooftop Bar with views of the city skyline.

Location: Eastern Massachusetts, northeastern USA | Vibe: Historic and cultured | Avg temp: 18°C to 28°C

My highlights…

• Dining al fresco at the trendy Scorpion Bar – edgy Mexican décor, a giant ‘Scorpion’ margarita with a sweet-tart tequila kick, and perfectly crunchy cinnamon churros!

8. Half Moon Bay, California

I totally fell for Half Moon Bay when I stopped here on my summer road trip — the cooler coastal temperatures were a refreshing break from the inland heat, and with the fog lifted, I had sunny skies perfect for beach walks, watching surfers, and ocean-view dining. I also loved the summer buzz – the Ol’ Fashioned 4th of July Parade and Festival, the family-friendly Half Moon Bay Fair, and the artisanal Sundays on the quaint Main Street market all took place this month!

Driving down the dreamy Pacific Coast Highway from Portland, I happily spent three days relaxing on the photogenic Half Moon Bay State Beach, watching the waves at the wild and rugged Mavericks Beach, hiking the scenic Coastal Trail, and indulging in a decadent chocolate lava cake at the authentic Peruvian La Costanera restaurant!

Location: Northern California coast, western US | Vibe: relaxed, coastal, and slightly upscale| Avg temp: 13°C to 21°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous boutique Seal Cove Inn – I was won over by the chic decor, scenic setting, and charming touches such as the crumbly homemade lavender shortbread and the cozy beverage station.

9. St Michaels, Maryland

I chose St. Michaels for a less commercialized summer break, and this month turned out to be a good decision — warm, sunny days were ideal for sailing, dockside dining, and wandering the charming historic streets while soaking up the town’s relaxed coastal vibe. I really loved the long daylight hours, and the lively early-summer buzz — from Big Band Night and fireworks over St. Michaels Harbor to the free Concerts in the Park.

I drove just under 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C., and spent five peaceful days on the Miles River, visiting the fascinating Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, exploring the gallery-filled historic district, dining on Espinacas con Garbanzos at upscale Plates at 208, and ending each evening listening to light jazz drifting through Muskrat Park.

Location: Eastern Maryland, mid-Atlantic USA | Vibe: nautical, chic, and charming| Avg temp: 21°C° to 30°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the upscale Inn at Perry Cabin — I enjoyed its historic charm, chic decor, waterfront views, and sipping on a smooth local St. Michaels rosé in my soaking tub before unwinding on my terrace!

10. Buffalo River, Arkansas

The Buffalo National River really wowed me during this month — long, hot days made paddling, swimming, and floating down the river irresistible, and the lush green scenery was dotted with pretty wildflowers. Dry weather and ideal water levels made it a great month for camping under starry skies, and I loved spotting elk, deer, and songbirds during the quiet mornings and evenings.

I flew into Northwest Arkansas National Airport, drove two hours southeast, and camped at peaceful Tyler Bend Campground for four outdoorsy days, paddling through the remote Upper Buffalo wilderness, hiking to the dramatic Hemmed-In Hollow Falls (the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and Appalachians), swimming at bluff-framed Steel Creek, and exploring the otherworldly Blanchard Springs Caverns.

Location: Northern Arkansas, south-central US | Vibe: rugged, natural, and adventurous| Avg temp: 18°C to 32°C

My highlights…

• Exploring the eerie ghost towns of Rush and Peppersauce, I passed crumbling stores, rusted mining gear, and peeling cabins, with creaking wood and a dry, dusty scent in the air!

11. Traverse City, Lake Michigan

Traverse City was at its sun-soaked best when I visited during this month – the hot, sunny days were ideal for lounging on Lake Michigan’s sandy beaches, exploring nearby vineyards, and hiking the surrounding hills. It was great to time my visit for the lively 8-day National Cherry Festival with its air shows, free concerts, and endless cherry treats, and the colorful Independence Day celebrations also took place on the waterfront this month.

I drove 2.5 hours north from Grand Rapids and spent a wonderful week relaxing on the family-friendly Clinch Park Beach, wine tasting on the vineyard-dotted Leelanau Peninsula, and hiking the stunning trails of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. My favorite morning treat was an al fresco breakfast of blue cornmeal and quinoa pancakes at the modern S2S Sugar to Salt eatery — the perfect start to a Lake Michigan day.

Location: Northwestern Michigan, Midwest US| Vibe: lakeside wine-country cool | Avg temp: 18°C – 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the 4-star Inn at Bay Harbor — I enjoyed the poolside cabanas, sleek spa, and indulging in afternoon tea with fragrant Earl Grey and signature Little Traverse Bay Peach Bellinis!

12. Beavers Bend Resort Park, Oklahoma

July turned Beavers Bend into my own outdoor playground — hot, dry days with cooler evenings made it ideal for boating, kayaking on Broken Bow Lake, swimming at Cedar Creek Beach, hiking shaded trails, and camping under clear starry skies. The park was filled with green foliage and pretty wildflowers, and I loved spotting deer, wild turkeys, turtles, and even a bald eagle near the lake.

I drove three hours from Dallas and spent four relaxing days based at the new Choctaw Landing Hotel, kayaking on the large lake, hiking the winding Forest Heritage Trail, riding the nostalgic Beavers Bend Depot train, and joining the park’s fun campfire storytelling and nature activities.

Location: Southeastern Oklahoma, south-central US | Vibe: outdoorsy, family-friendly and rustic | Avg temp: 29°C to 35°C

My highlights…

• Trying a Yakanoe — a fun canoe–kayak hybrid — was such a unique experience! I loved how the wider hull felt extra stable and made paddling effortless!

13. Block Island, Rhode Island

I couldn’t have timed my Block Island escape better — warm, dry weather made biking the quiet coastal roads, lounging on sandy beaches, hiking the trails, and browsing Old Harbor’s indie shops a dream, all with sunsets that seemed to last forever. I loved the festive buzz with the colorful 4th of July parade and barge-launched fireworks, as well as the toe-tapping Blues on the Block concerts.

I took the one-hour ferry from Point Judith and spent an idyllic long weekend biking around the island, relaxing on its golden-sanded beaches, hiking the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs Trail, and visiting the atmospheric Southeast Lighthouse. Evenings brought live music at the friendly Fred Benson Town Beach, and my favorite treat was gorging on Belgian waffles dripping with orange honey at the locally loved Ballard’s Resort Restaurant.

Location: Off the southern coast of Rhode Island, northeastern US | Vibe: breezy, quaint and charming | Avg temp: 24°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the charming 1661 Inn was a treat — I loved the ocean views, champagne breakfast buffet, and sipping on an aromatic Sauvignon Blanc with chocolate-covered cranberries at afternoon wine hour.

14. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming 

I took a long summer weekend in Grand Teton National Park and I discovered snow-free trails, warm, dry days, and long daylight hours made it ideal for hiking, kayaking, and scenic drives, with moose and bears more active and endless golden-hour photo opportunities.

I loved seeing the pretty wildflowers in full bloom and joining ranger-led programs and wildflower walks. I drove an hour from Idaho Falls and spent a week at the cozy 4-star Jackson Lake Lodge, hiking the breathtaking Cascade Canyon Trail, kayaking across Jenny Lake, watching wildlife in Antelope Flats, catching sunrise at Oxbow Bend, and driving the scenic Teton Park Road.

Location: Northwestern Wyoming, western USA | Vibe: majestic, untamed, and awe-inspiring | Avg temp: 21°C to 27°C

My personal highlights…

• Driving up Signal Mountain, I breathed in the crisp mountain air, listened to the wind whispering through the pines, and gazed at breathtaking views of Jackson Hole with bison grazing far below!

15. Lake Chelan, Washington

Although it was a busy month, I still loved visiting this long, deep blue lake during this month — warm, sunny days were perfect for boating, swimming, paddle-boarding on the clear blue waters, hiking the surrounding hills, and wine tasting at lakeside vineyards. I loved the lively summer vibe with 4th of July fireworks, the popular Lake Chelan Bach Fest, and the free Riverwalk Park Music Series.

I drove just under 3.5 hours east from Seattle and spent five relaxing days at the modern Lodge Lake Chelan, swimming and paddleboarding, taking the Lady of the Lake ferry to remote Stehekin, sipping a sparkling Karma Brut at the rustic-chic Karma Vineyards, and ending my evenings with live folk music at the community-centered Riverwalk Pavilion. I have to admit, July is the lake’s busiest month, so I reserved boat rentals ahead of time and headed out early. 

Location: Central Washington State, Pacific Northwest | Vibe: vineyard-lined lakeside getaway | Avg temp: 24°C to 32°C

My highlights…

16. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park completely won me over this month — the warm sunshine, lush green landscapes, and wildflower-filled meadows made every hike, kayak trip, and scenic drive very memorable! The Middle Fork Whitewater also had ideal rafting levels, and the wildlife was incredibly active too.

I flew into Glacier Park International Airport near Kalispell, drove 40 minutes to the west entrance, and spent five incredible nights at the historic Swiss-chalet-style Many Glacier Hotel. I packed in driving the breathtaking Going-to-the-Sun Road, hiking to the mirror-like Hidden Lake, spotting mountain goats and bighorn sheep near Logan Pass, and soaking in the Insta-worthy views at the spectacular Grinnell Glacier. I have to admit, Going-to-the-Sun Road was busy — so I made a point to enter before sunrise when it was peaceful and crowd-free.

Location: Northwestern Montana, Northwest USA | Vibe: wild, dramatic, and remote | Avg temp: 21°C to 27°C

My highlights…

• Spending a night at the 1914 Granite Park Chalet – I loved the communal kitchen, the no-electricity, no-water camping vibe, and sharing steaming bowls of vegetable chili and tall trail stories after a long hike!

17. Ely, Minnesota

My highlights…

• Dining at the cool New American eatery Insula – I loved the casual vibe, the hearty portions they served up, the lavender and hibiscus lemonade and heavenly bourbon maple sweet potato smash which came with crunchy walnuts! 

18. Monterey, California

Monterey was just so dreamy during summer — mild, mostly sunny days (with just a touch of fog) made it a refreshing escape from the inland heat, and it’s one of the best months for whale watching. I loved the impressive 4th of July celebrations with live music, food vendors, and family fun on the historic Colton Hall Lawn, as well as the mouthwatering City of Monterey Backyard Food Fest.

I stopped for three days at the funky 4-star Portola Hotel & Spa during my Pacific Coast Highway road trip, spending my time whale watching in Monterey Bay, exploring lively Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf, and relaxing on golden Del Monte Beach. The historic waterfront district lined with cozy restaurants, indie shops, and art galleries, was the perfect spot to end each evening. Mornings were foggy and cool, so I saved my coastal drives and beach time for sunny afternoons.

Location: Central California coast, western US | Vibe: quirky, coastal, and artsy | Avg temp: 16°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining al fresco at the oceanfront Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar – I really liked the nautical-themed decor and trying the decadent truffled french fries, the rich artichoke aioli and the smoky Brown Cypress woodinville bourbon cocktail! 

19. Marquette, Michigan

This month gave me everything I wanted in Marquette – warm, sunny days with a refreshing Lake Superior breeze made it perfect for swimming, hiking, and soaking up the lake views. I timed my trip to catch the festive 4th of July celebrations and the three-day upbeat Hiawatha Music Festival with its mix of bluegrass, folk, and Cajun, and the free Music on Third Street concerts also took place this month.

I drove seven hours from Chicago and stayed at the historic Landmark Inn for a laid-back short break, swimming at the shallow McCarty’s Cove, hiking the wooded Sugarloaf Mountain and saw beautiful lake views, watching the sunset from the peninsula-framed Presque Isle Park, and exploring the quirky shops, breweries, galleries, and cafés downtown.

Location: Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Midwest USA | Vibe: outdoorsy and creative small town| Avg temp: 18°C to 24°C