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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 wanted from a Finger Lakes getaway — sunshine-filled days for swimming and kayaking, gorge trails lined with wildflowers, and a relaxed vacation vibe with the Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival and the Finger Lakes Wine Festival adding extra fun!
I drove five hours from New York and based myself for 14 days at the charming 4-star Mirbeau Inn & Spa. I spent it hiking, dining in cozy farm-to-table spots, admiring Ithaca’s 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 open-kitchen, feeling the fresh air from their high-tech purification system, and their Apple Dessert made with smoky eggplant and tahini! 2. Bar Harbor, Maine
July turned Bar Harbor into the ultimate seaside escape — I experienced warm, sunny days (with just a few cool breezes) so it was ideal for outdoor adventures, and it was peak whale-watching season! The city buzzed with the patriotic Bar Harbor Fourth of July Celebrations and the free Seaside Cinema movie nights too!
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 romantic upscale 4-star Bluenose Inn —I adored the views over Frenchman Bay, and their Maine Sea Stone Massage at the attentive onsite spa! 3. Yachats, Oregon
Stopping in Yachats was one of the best choices of my summer road trip — mild weather, long daylight, and dry days made it perfect for hiking, tide pooling, and oceanfront dining. It was also alive with the July 4th La De Da Parade, fireworks and the lively weekend Farmers Market!
I drove just under 3.5 hours south from Portland and spent four dreamy days walking the scenic 804 Trail, marveling at Thor’s Well, sipping a bold Saison de Yachats at the award-winning Yachats Brewing + Farm Store, and swapping clambake tips with friendly locals.
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! 4. Boston, Massachusetts
My Instagram snap of a Boston Post Office – I loved the characterful brownstone buildings here!
Boston made an awesome summer city break — warm, sunny days were perfect for strolling historic streets, dining al fresco, and relaxing in its leafy parks and harbors. Events ranged from Fourth of July fireworks over the Charles River to Boston Harborfest and the Revere Beach Sand Sculpting Festival.
I flew into Logan International Airport and spent three lively days at the funky Verb Hotel, walking the Freedom Trail, unwinding in Boston Common, grazing my way through Quincy Market, whale watching in Boston Harbor (the season runs from May to October) and sipping a Cloud Nine Martini at the Apex Rooftop Bar!
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! 5. Half Moon Bay, California
I totally fell for Half Moon Bay on my summer road trip — the cool coastal air was a refreshing break from the inland heat, and with the fog gone, I had sunny skies perfect for beach walks and ocean-view dining. The Ol’ Fashioned 4th of July Parade, the Half Moon Bay Fair, and the Sunday market were all happening!
Driving the dreamy Pacific Coast Highway from Portland, I spent three blissful days relaxing on Half Moon Bay State Beach, watching waves crash at Mavericks Beach, hiking the scenic Coastal Trail, and indulging in a rich chocolate lava cake at La Costanera’s oceanfront 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. 6. St Michaels, Maryland
I chose St. Michaels for a quieter, less commercialized summer escape — warm, sunny days were perfect for sailing, dockside dining, and wandering the charming historic streets. I loved the long daylight hours and the lively early-summer buzz from Big Band Night, fireworks over the harbor, and free Concerts in the Park.
I drove just under 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C., and spent five peaceful days by the Miles River, visiting the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, browsing galleries in the historic district, dining on Espinacas con Garbanzos at Plates at 208, and ending each evening listening to live jazz drift 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! 7. Geneva-on-the-lake, Ohio
I couldn’t have picked a better time for a retro-style summer vacation — long, sunny days were perfect for beach lounging, nostalgic boardwalk fun, and water adventures. The fun summer vibe peaked with the Fourth of July parade and the Wine & Walleye Festival.
I flew into Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, drove an hour east, and spent a wonderful week at the boutique Lakehouse Inn, swimming at Geneva State Park Beach, tasting Madsen’s famous Peanut Donuts, and Pink Catawba’s at Old Firehouse winery.
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 and my Sangria & Watermelon Salad smothered in a tangy Ferrante sangria vinaigrette. 8. Traverse City, Lake Michigan
Traverse City was at its sunniest when I visited — hot, bright days were perfect for Lake Michigan’s beaches, touring vineyards, and hiking. I timed my trip for the lively 8-day National Cherry Festival and the waterfront Independence Day celebrations.
I drove 2.5 hours north from Grand Rapids and spent a wonderful week relaxing on sandy Clinch Park Beach, hiking the Sleeping Bear Dunes and al fresco breakfasts of blue cornmeal and quinoa pancakes at S2S Sugar to Salt — the perfect Lake Michigan morning!
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! 9. 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 scenic trails, and browsing Old Harbor’s indie shops an absolute dream. There was also the 4th of July parade, barge-launched fireworks, and toe-tapping Blues on the Block concerts!
I took the one-hour ferry from Point Judith and spent an idyllic break squeezing in the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs Trail, and the historic Southeast Lighthouse. Evenings meant live country music and Belgian waffle desserts dripping with orange honey at 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. 10. Lake Chelan, Washington
Even though it was a busy month, I loved visiting this long, deep blue lake — warm, sunny days were perfect for boating, swimming, hiking the nearby hills, and wine tasting at lakeside vineyards. The summer vibe was in full swing with 4th of July fireworks, the 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, paddleboarding, sipping sparkling Karma Brut at rustic-chic Karma Vineyards, and ending evenings with live folk music at the Riverwalk Pavilion. July is the busiest month though, so I booked rentals early!
Location: Central Washington State, Pacific Northwest | Vibe: vineyard-lined lakeside getaway | Avg temp: 24°C to 32°C
My highlights…
11. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Taking a short summer break here was an awesome decision — long, sunny days and warm weather made it perfect for kayaking shimmering lakes, swimming off secluded islands, hiking, and stargazing. I loved how photogenic the park was and also spotting wildlife like loons, nesting bald eagles, playful 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 Kabetogama Lake and Black Bay Trails and exploring the tiny Little American Island Gold Mine.
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! 12. Marquette, Michigan
This month gave me everything I wanted in Marquette — warm, sunny days and a refreshing Lake Superior breeze made it perfect for swimming, hiking, and soaking up the views. I timed my visit for the 4th of July celebrations, the lively three-day Hiawatha Music Festival, and the free Music on Third Street concerts.
I drove seven hours from Chicago and stayed at the historic Landmark Inn, swimming at McCarty’s Cove, hiking Sugarloaf Mountain for sweeping lake views, watching sunsets from 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
My highlights…
Hiking Sugarloaf Mountain, I paused on shady benches breathing air alive with the fresh smell of moss and rain before reaching the summit’s 360° views of Lake Superior, the Huron Mountains, and endless green forest! 13. Buffalo River, Arkansas
The Buffalo National River completely wowed me this month — long, hot days made paddling, swimming, and floating the river irresistible, with lush green scenery and colorful wildflowers all around. Dry weather and perfect water levels made it ideal for camping, and I loved seeing elk and deer in the peaceful mornings.
I flew into Northwest Arkansas National Airport, drove two hours southeast, and camped at tranquil Tyler Bend Campground for four adventure-filled days, paddling the remote Upper Buffalo wilderness, hiking to Hemmed-In Hollow Falls, swimming at bluff-framed Steel Creek, and exploring the magical 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! 14. 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! 15. 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 adored the pretty wildflowers and joining ranger-led programs.
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!
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