19 Perfect Places Visit in the Month of August

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I’m a veteran traveler and in this guide, I share the best places to visit in August — both in the USA and abroad. 

Warm weather and long days make August the perfect time for outdoor activities. This round-up features national parks, cozy seaside villages, and cool mountain towns where you can beat the heat. Summer festivals, seasonal eats, and other cultural experiences add to these destinations.

Places to Visit in August in the USA Alaska

Explore the epic natural wonders and urban charms of the Last Frontier.

Adventure awaits at every turn in Alaska!

🛎️ Where to Stay | Things to Do 

August is the best time to explore many of the top destinations in beautiful Alaska. Witness towering mountain majesty at Denali National Park. Watch glaciers descend to the ocean in Prince William Sound. Wait for whales to breach at Kenai Fjords National Park. All this is just the tip of the iceberg!

Visit the verdant woodlands of the Alaska Tongass National Forest and delve into gold rush history in Juneau and Skagway. Pass the day soaking in the Chena Hot Springs near Fairbanks as you wait for the first showings of the northern lights at the end of the month.

The Alaska State Fair in Palmer begins in the middle of the month, featuring games, rides, and giant vegetables. Kodiak, Alaska’s Emerald Isle, is a hidden gem adorned with evergreen forests and black sand beaches. Alaska also has awesome breweries. A favorite of mine is 49th State Brewing which has locations in Anchorage and outside of Denali National Park. 

Mackinac Island, Michigan

This little island in the Great Lakes has a lot of old-time charm.

 Lake Michigan views from Mackinac Island

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Northern Michigan, as a whole, is one of America’s hidden gems — and Mackinac Island in Lake Michigan takes you back to the days before automobiles. 

The island offers horse-drawn carriage rides through its streets lined with vintage storefronts. Bicycles are available to rent as well. You can also set out on a boat tour of the local waters, board a fishing charter, or paddle out on a kayak at sunrise. 

In addition, the island boasts the historic Fort Mackinac, now a museum. There are also more than a dozen fudge shops offering delectable desserts to sample and take home to share (at least, you ought to share). It’s no wonder Mackinac Island made our list of the 150 best things to do in the USA.

San Diego, California

Surfing, hiking trails, and a ton of diverse attractions all await visitors to sunny San Diego.

Travel Lemming writer Laura McFarland and friends hiking in La Jolla

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San Diego is one of the top places to visit in August. Here, you can experience the best of SoCal summers. The city has great parks like Balboa Park and many other urban delights such as art galleries, breweries, and restaurants.

Then, there’s the beaches! What could be better after a summer day of surfing than watching the sunset over the ocean? There are tons of facilities for outdoor sports throughout the city, whether it’s pickleball or a pick-up game of beach volleyball. There are several awesome hiking trails around San Diego as well.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Idaho/Montana

August is a fine time to see the mighty geysers, wild animals, and rugged landscapes of the USA’s first national park.

The epic Grand Prismatic Spring — it’s the largest hot spring in the USA!

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Yellowstone is the first of America’s many national parks, and it’s easy to see why it was designated as such. It’s situated at the juncture of three states (Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming), each famous for their natural beauty. Mountains loom in the distance, hot springs bubble, geysers erupt, and buffalo roam around like they own the place — because they do.

There’s no shortage of outdoor adventure opportunities. Over 900 miles of hiking trails wind their way through the woods and mountains here. The trails range from simple paths near familiar sites (like Old Faithful) to multi-day backcountry treks.

📚 Related Reading: National Park Packing List

Mystic, Connecticut

Haul in a catch of the best of the East Coast at this historic seaside town.

Mystic’s charming marina

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Few places capture the magic of New England’s maritime culture like Mystic, Connecticut. This cozy, seaside town is one of the best family vacation spots. 

It’s grown over the years but preserves itself as a picturesque fishing village. Take a walk by the docks of the downtown marina, then have a hearty bowl of New England clam chowder or locally-caught lobster for lunch.

The Mystic Seaport Museum is one of the best places to visit with kids or anyone who loves tall ships. Step aboard one of these vessels to be whisked away to the time of whalers and buccaneers. The museum also has a ton of info on New England’s deep connection to the sea. The Mystic Aquarium is another must for families, featuring whales, penguins, and more.  

The Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks are a treasure trove of seaside fun, from basking in the sun to rowdy summertime festivals.

Wild horses in Outer Banks

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Experience East Coast beach culture in the Outer Banks, one of the best places to visit in North Carolina. The white sand beaches are perfect for soaking up the sun or, for the more active, a good stroll or a horseback riding tour.

This band of islands on the Atlantic Ocean also has something for flight and history buffs. Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial near Kitty Hawk to see where humans first took flight in 1903.

The Outer Banks Watermelon Festival occurs at the start of the month, featuring games, contests, and more. The annual Pirate Festival follows shortly thereafter. All manner of scallywags descend on the historic haunts of Blackbeard during the festival. A variety of pirate-themed events take place with activities for young buccaneers and older salts alike.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Find outdoor activities and relief from the heat in Flagstaff, located near some of Arizona’s most famous natural wonders.

Taking a break to enjoy the views just south of Flagstaff

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Flagstaff’s high elevation (about 7000’) spares it the notorious summer heat in other parts of Arizona. It’s still warm here, but you can spend time outdoors without getting cooked alive! The city also has many urban amenities. Have a pint or two at one of Flagstaff’s several breweries. There’s no shortage of trendy restaurants, either.

Flagstaff is also a gateway to nearby Sedona attractions. Additionally, Petrified Forest National Park and the Grand Canyon are about 1.5 hours away. A more exotic option lies just an hour south in Camp Verde: the Out of Africa Wildlife Park. You could, though, opt for an even more authentic African experience in August…

The Oregon Coast

Oregon’s coastline has beautiful beaches, picturesque towns, and excellent cheese.

The iconic Haystack Rock on Cannon Beach

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The coastline of Oregon is known for its pristine beaches and craggy cliffs. It’s a great complement to the mountains and forests further inland and well worth a visit in August. Cannon Beach in Ecola State Park is one of the more majestic locales, famous for the towering Haystack Rock. 

Lighthouses line the shores in various areas. The town of Astoria is a cozy coastal destination. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is ideal for outdoor activities. Enjoy hiking trails and dune buggy rides at the site that inspired Frank Herbert’s Dune novels.

The town of Tillamook is another one of the top attractions on the Oregon coast. It’s a must for all dairy devotees. The Cheese Factory here produces the famous Tillamook cheese and ice cream. Who wouldn’t love a sample of said products on a warm summer day?

Montana

Big Sky Country has limitless opportunities for outdoor adventure and learning about the history of the American West.

The sky really does seem bigger here

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Montana is a place like no other in the United States. The state has vast plains, majestic mountains, and lush forests in its western parts and near Yellowstone National Park. 

Montana is sparsely populated but has a rich heritage. Several Native American tribes have called it home for centuries. Lewis and Clark traversed this epic landscape and modern visitors can retrace their voyage on the trail bearing their name. The fateful Battle of Little Bighorn took place in Montana and a national monument marks the battleground today.

More recent settlements grew into the cities that now dot the land. The sleepy town of Butte was once a bustling copper boomtown, for instance. Kalispell is the best gateway to Glacier National Park. Billings is Montana’s largest city with just over 100,000 residents. Each city has something unique, and you never lose that frontier feeling, even in the most urbanized areas.

Yakima, Washington

America’s heartland of hop production has great breweries, trails, and restaurants, as well as river float trips.

There are many excellent breweries in Yakima

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Yakima is one of the smaller cities in Washington but well worth a visit in August. The Yakima Valley is famous in the beer-brewing world for producing around 75% of the country’s hops. Naturally, you can tour some great breweries here. There are also several fantastic wineries.

Yakima, Washington has excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation. Cowiche Canyon has several trails for hikers, bikers, and horse riders. Rocky Top has panoramic views of town and even connects to a longer trail to Mount Rainier. Floating down the Yakima River is a popular way to beat the summer heat. Everything you need can be booked at a local business.

There’s also a wide array of restaurants offering every kind of cuisine. Stop by a mom-and-pop tamale restaurant for lunch or a trendy foodie establishment for farm-fresh, locally-sourced fare. 

Places to Visit in August (International) Ireland

Enjoy the Emerald Isle’s gorgeous scenery, fascinating castles, and lively pub culture.

Travel Lemming editor Abigail posed along the Cliffs of Moher coastal walk

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August is the peak season for visiting Ireland but it’s worth braving the crowds! The weather is warm and (usually) calm, so it’s a great time to explore harder-to-reach places like Skellig Michael. It’s also a great time for hiking the verdant hills across the country. 

Irish pubs are the perfect places to end a day’s adventures or wait out a rainy day. The drinks are cold and the company is warm. Many pubs feature fine traditional tunes, as well as contemporary ones. Dublin’s pubs will be packed, but there are a few hidden gems further from the main tourist areas. Plus, August is an ideal time to take an Irish road trip. 

Get planning with our guides to where to stay in Dublin and where to stay in Galway.

Istanbul, Türkiye

This city on the border of Europe and Asia teems with bustling bazaars, remarkable architecture, and a history like no other city.

Travel Lemming founder Nate in front of the Hagia Sophia

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Türkiye was voted one of Travel Lemming’s best places to visit in 2024, and this beautiful country is still one of our favorites. Its largest city, Istanbul, is perfect for anyone who wants a taste of the exotic without going too far off the map. 

Take a walk at the Grand Bazaar and haggle for a bargain. Stop by the Blue Mosque to take in the stunning interior. Visit the majestic Hagia Sophia to see the last echoes of the glory of the Eastern Roman Empire.

The city’s heritage spans centuries, combining Greek, Eastern Roman, and Turkish influences. Tours will take you throughout (and even under!) the city to retrace its epic history. Take a break with some Turkish tea or coffee, paired with Turkish delight. Finish up the day with a dinner cruise on the Bosporus Straits.

Marseille, France

Spend a day soaking up the sun or sailing the sea in France’s second-largest city.

The coast in Marseille

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Marseille, France is a must for anyone who loves the ocean. This historic city on the Mediterranean dates back to antiquity. However, it has all the modern creature comforts you could want. This balance makes it one of the country’s top destinations. 

Start the day off with coffee and a croissant, then wander the winding backstreets of the Old Town (La Panier). You could also head out of town for a little fishing on the Marseille Coast.

Sip some wine a little later in the day aboard a sailboat. Or ride the water taxi to several points of this port city. Calanques National Park is a fantastic place for a day hike and dip in the Mediterranean. Back in town, the views from the Basilica of Notre Dame of la Garde are unequaled, as is the ornate beauty of the church’s interior. 

Scotland

August is an excellent time to hike the Highlands, sail to the Isles, and explore the cities of Scotland.

Travel Lemming writer Louise in Edinburgh’s Circus Lane

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Scotland has a magic about it that must be experienced firsthand. Louise’s 10-day Scotland itinerary will lead you to the best places.

A hike in the Highlands transports you to a world of near-mythical beauty, especially when the mist rolls along the mountains. Cozy seaside towns such as Oban are good jumping-off points for exploring the remote beauty of the Isles.

Scotland’s cities are also fantastic places to explore history and chat with locals. Edinburgh abounds with cultural attractions. Glasgow often plays second fiddle, but unjustly. The city also has plenty of things to do, from cathedrals to pubs to charming guest houses.

Have a little haggis on your travels and wash it down with a dram or two of authentic scotch at a local eatery. The Scots also have a proud music heritage with fantastic trad sessions in many pubs. 

Get planning with our guides to where to stay in Edinburgh and where to stay in Glasgow.

Durham, England

This cozy town features a towering cathedral, rich history, and charming countryside atmosphere.

Durham Cathedral harkens back to a bygone time

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Durham is not on many people’s radars and that is part of its charm. It’s one of the best hidden gems to visit in August. Here, you can experience the United Kingdom without the crowds in places like London. Streets here wind their way up the sloping banks of the River Wear, with many charming boutique shops and cafes all along the way.

The majestic Durham Cathedral forms the pinnacle of the otherwise humble Durham “skyline.” This lofty medieval church houses ancient manuscripts and is the final resting place of the Venerable Bede, known as the “father of English history.”

August sees warm temperatures here despite England’s notorious tendency to rainy weather. A walk by the River Wear is a pleasant way to spend a mellow summer afternoon before taking a teatime break in the early evening.

Yukon, Canada

This is the best destination in Canada for epic road trips and rugged wilderness beauty.

Some of the best road trip experiences in North America await!

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The Yukon is synonymous with adventure, having risen to fame in the gold rush era. This northwestern corner of Canada is still full of golden opportunities for outdoor adventure.  

Whitehorse, the capital city, is a great base camp for exploring the area and has many attractions of its own. You can kayak down the Yukon River, wander one of the many hiking trails, or enjoy the city’s music scene.

Flying to Whitehorse is the easiest way to get here. A drive to or from Alaska, though, is one of the most epic road trip experiences on the planet! Towns and hotels are few and far between, but there are plenty of places to camp. Just bring a good amount of bug spray.

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Charming seaside towns, red sand beaches, and literary heritage make this Canadian island an excellent family vacation spot. 

Travel Lemming’s director of marketing,Taylor, at Cape Bear Lighthouse in PEI

🛎️ Where to Stay | Things to Do 

Anyone who has read and loved Anne of Green Gables owes it to themself to visit this charming island in eastern Canada. The Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place will be the first stop for fans of Anne’s adventures, though there are dozens of other worthwhile places to visit.

Prince Edward Island (PEI) boasts perfect beach weather in summer and the waters are surprisingly warm for such a northerly locale. King’s Cove Provincial Park is remarkable for its red sands, caused by high levels of iron. 

The city of Charlottetown breathes an old-time atmosphere and cozy vibes, and there are lots of fun things to do here. There are plenty of places to go for great shopping, dining, and sightseeing. You’ll likely start viewing things with Anne’s same magical wonder after a few days on PEI. 

Mongolia

Escape the hubbub of modern life on the vast plains of Genghis Khan’s homeland.

Words can’t convey the vastness of Mongolia’s steppes

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Montana may be known as the “Big Sky Country” but, vast as it is, it must take a back seat to Mongolia. The epic beauty of its endless steppes defies description, but there are other climates here, too. The Gobi Desert in southern Mongolia is home to rolling sand dunes and rugged hills. The Altai Mountains in the western corner feel like something from a fantasy story.

The Mongols may have a militant legacy, but the people are unforgettably friendly and hospitable. Tours allow you to go horse riding on the steppes or stay the night in a traditional yurt. 

You can also spend a few days in Ulaanbaatar, the nation’s booming capital. Check out the Chinggis Khaan Museum, take a stroll at Sukhbaatar Square, and sip coffee at one of the city’s many cafes. You can also get authentic Mongolian food at local restaurants (alas, most “Mongolian BBQ” menus in America are a far cry from the real thing).

Kenya

Safaris are just the beginning of the adventures awaiting you in Kenya. 

Travel Lemming writer Clara on a Kenyan safari

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Kenya is one of the best places for something most people only dream of: an authentic safari! The nation’s location in the Southern Hemisphere means that the seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Kenya enjoys a cool season while many places up north bake in the summer heat. Daytime temperatures average in the mid-70s.

There’s more to Kenya than safaris, though. Mount Kilimanjaro is an alpinist’s dream. Hell’s Gate National Park, despite its name, is a safe place to hike, free of famous predators like lions. The park also has great rock climbing at Fischer’s Tower. Additionally, Kenya has extraordinary beaches such as Diani Beach, a personal favorite of Travel Lemming’s founder, Nate.

Stay in Nairobi or book a hotel in Mombasa, both of which have a wide array of urban attractions. Lively markets, coffee tours, and historic sites are some of the highlights of these cities.

📚 Related Reading: I Booked a 5-Star Luxury Safari With Points. Here’s My Review of the JW Marriott Masai Mara in Kenya.“

📅 Month-by-Month Travel Inspiration:

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I hope you’ve gotten some great ideas about places to visit in August. Up next, check our round up of the best places to visit in September!

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