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Best places to visit in july.

Looking for summer fun beyond your neighborhood cookout? From national parks to quaint towns to scenic beachfront destinations, the following locales are excellent spots for a vacation in July. Travelers can expect warm temperatures, little precipitation and a bevy of things to do, see and experience. We weighed these factors and more to come up with the best places to visit in July. Cast your vote below to help U.S. News compile next year's ranking.

Olympic National Park

Cannon beach, aix-en-provence.

With highs between the low 60s and mid-70s and an abundance of daylight hours, the outdoors call during the summertime in Norway's capital city. Take a ferry or bus to spend a day at the Bygdøy peninsula, which boasts picturesque views of the area's natural landscape, as well as museums, beaches and walking and running trails for travelers to enjoy. Oslo visitors can also lounge on one of the urban beaches found around the city or explore the more than 60 miles of inlet at Oslo Fjord.

July is one of the busiest times of year to visit this popular Washington state national park. With low precipitation and average temperatures sitting comfortably in the 60s and 70s, it is the perfect time to explore must-see sights like Hurricane Ridge and Hoh Rain Forest, which is thought to be one of the quietest destinations in the United States. Just keep in mind, you won't be the only one hiking through the spectacular scenery. Avoid the crowds by visiting outside of the park's peak hours (between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.).

Zanzibar, a Tanzanian archipelago, is an ideal, relaxed vacation spot if you're looking for coral white sands, turquoise waters and abundance of marine life. July, which sits in the dry season, is a perfect time to hit the beach. Beyond the sand, visit the UNESCO–listed Stone Town to see where African, Arabic, Indian and European cultures collide. Music lovers can visit the Freddie Mercury Museum, dedicated to the legendary musician who was born here. And no trip to Zanzibar would be complete without a spice tour to learn more about the rich history of the island.

Situated at the foot of the Swiss Alps and on the shoreline of Lake Geneva, Montreux, Switzerland, is a picturesque musical muse destination in July. The city hosts the Montreux Jazz Festival throughout the month, and close to 250,000 music lovers descend upon the area for endless days of jazz. Montreux was immortalized in the final Queen album, and visitors can snap pictures of Freddie Mercury's statue by the lake. Beyond musical attractions, travelers can cruise the largest lake in the Alps, visit the Lavaux vineyards or swim among the many beaches found in the area.

If you don't mind sharing the view from scenic overlooks like Mount Solaro and the Gardens of Augustus with hordes of other tourists, July is one of the most quintessential times to visit this Italian island in the Bay of Naples. Balmy temperatures in the 80s and minimal rainfall are ideal for posting up on a beach, taking a boat tour of the Blue Grotto and dining alfresco in Marina Grande. Plus, summer nights in Capri are great for enjoying the island's many lively bars and clubs.

Known for its luxurious resorts and striking pink sand beaches (Horseshoe Bay Beach and Warwick Long Bay are two visitor favorites), this British overseas territory beckons to travelers seeking a relaxing summer vacation. Average temperatures in Bermuda hover in the mid-80s in July, making it an ideal time for engaging in water activities like swimming and snorkeling. This is also one of the best times for fishing on the island – July draws anglers from all over the world looking to compete in the Bermuda Triple Crown Billfish Championship.

There are many reasons to visit Juneau in July. Not only is this the warmest month of the year (daytime highs sit in the low 60s), but the days are long and the city's attractions, some of which close in the winter, are open for business. July is also prime whale watching season in Alaska's capital city and one of the best times of year for bear viewing. Although you'll spend more on airfare and accommodations by visiting during Juneau's peak season, you'll also be able to enjoy must-see sights like the Tracy Arm Fjord and Glacier Gardens without the frigid temperatures.

Considered one of the best summer vacation destinations in the U.S., Seattle offers travelers plenty to do in July. With highs around the mid-70s, you'll stay comfortable on a sightseeing boat tour to admire the Emerald City's picturesque skyline. Plus, you can enjoy live entertainment during the three-day Capitol Hill Block Party. Of course, Seattle offers many notable attractions, such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Once you've seen the sights, get a taste of the city's dynamic dining scene, coffee culture and beer bars.

One of Oregon's top travel destinations also happens to be home to one of the world's most beautiful beaches . Cannon Beach, a small coastal town in northwest Oregon, boasts nearly 4 miles of sandy beach characterized by its spectacular rock formations (including Haystack Rock), tide pools and robust birdwatching opportunities. In July, crowds descend upon the area and hotels book up fast, but this is a small price to pay for the pleasant daytime temperatures in the mid-60s and low chance of rain.

Summer brings warm weather and a full roster of events to this southern California beach town. Although this means longer lines and inflated room rates, July is one of the best times of year to enjoy activities like snorkeling at La Jolla Cove or strolling through Balboa Park, home of the famed San Diego Zoo. Visitors can also take advantage of July's many other offerings, including the annual Over the Line Tournament and the San Diego Comic-Con.

With plenty of street cafes, beer gardens and parks to visit and highs in the upper 70s, July is a perfect time to venture outdoors in Berlin. Tiergarten – the city's largest park and home to the Berlin Zoo – boasts 500-plus acres of green space and is an ideal place to walk, run or grab food and drinks at one of the many eateries found in the area. Visitors can also take a boat tour along the Spree River to see sites in the heart of Berlin. Plus, the city comes to life in July with its annual Berlin Pride celebration.

Popular music and wine festivals and pleasant weather characterize the month of July in Porto, Portugal. With average highs in the mid-70s, travelers can enjoy sightseeing in the Ribeira district, strolling across famous bridges like the Dom Luís I Bridge and wine tasting (Porto's namesake port wine is a must-try) without the stifling heat and humidity that other European cities see in summer. For visitors who need a break from the sunshine, the city offers the ornate Livraria Lello bookstore and the National Museum Soares dos Reis, Portugal's first public art museum.

Travel to this small college town in the south of France if your perfect summer getaway includes meandering down tree-lined boulevards and sipping coffee at charming cafes. July brings an influx of tourists, causing airfare prices and room rates to spike. But if you can swing it, the comfortable temperatures in the 70s and 80s make hiking Mont Sainte-Victoire and exploring popular thoroughfares like Cours Mirabeau a treat. What's more, the region's famed lavender is typically in peak bloom this month, so take a day trip to the surrounding countryside for a glimpse of the fragrant fields of purple.

Known for its inhabitants' longevity and as the birthplace of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, Ikaria is a Greek island located in the Aegean Sea. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal place to visit in July. The island's most famous beach, Seychelles, whose crystal-clear waters are surrounded by cliffs and rocks, is a picturesque place to spend the day. You can also learn about the island's history at the Archaeological Museum of Agios Kirykos. But July's most unique draws are Ikaria's renowned summer festivals, where visitors can dance, sample Ikarian wine and party with the locals well into the morning.

Sitting about 700 miles east of Madagascar, Mauritius draws sun-seeking travelers in droves. When you're not relaxing on the African island's pristine white sand beaches, go for a ride on the longest zip line in the Indian Ocean or explore Black River Gorges National Park's numerous hiking trails. With so much natural beauty to behold (think: verdant rainforests, stunning lagoons and breathtaking waterfalls) it's easy to see why Mauritius is lauded as one of the world's best island destinations . Plus, thanks to its location near the equator, Mauritius offers sunny skies and temps in the 70s in July.

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Man dies on Colorado River trip; 7th fatality at Grand Canyon National Park since July 31

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz. (AP) — There has been another fatality at Grand Canyon National Park, authorities announced Monday.

Park officials said 59-year-old Patrick Horton of Salida, Colorado, was on the 10th day of a non-commercial river trip along the Colorado River and was discovered dead by members of his party Saturday morning.

Officials said the National Park Service is conducting an investigation of Horton’s death in coordination with the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Horton is believed to be the seventh person to die at the canyon since July 31 and the 15th this year.

Park officials reported 11 fatalities in 2023 and say there are usually about 10 to 15 deaths per year.

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• St. Petersburg Travel and City Excursions

Our 25 Best St. Petersburg Day Tours of 2022

Join our expert, informative and, most importantly, fun guides on a wide selection of day tours in Russia’s cultural capital - St. Petersburg! Visit the Winter Palace - the Hermitage , Doestoevky’s apartment, take a military tour or a romantic boat excursion along St. Petersburg’s many canals. See Peterhof with its magical fountains and the nearby town of Pushkin . Surround yourself in Russian culture Please click on the day tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our St. Petersburg tours using the form at the side of the page.  You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Our St. Petersburg walking tour is a great introduction to this marvelous city for visitors who enjoy walking. Our expert guide will take you down the famous Nevsky Prospect, to Palace Square (the Winter Palace) home of the...

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A great introduction to St. Petersburg for visitors who enjoy walking. Our expert guide will take you down the famous Nevsky Prospect, to Palace Square (the Winter Palace) home of the Tsars andon through some of the islands...

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 09:00 - 18:00 Wednesday not available

A great introduction to St. Petersburg for visitors who enjoy walking. Our expert guide will take you down the famous Nevsky Prospect, to Palace Square (the Winter Palace) home of the Tsars and on through some of the islands...

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 09:00 - 20:00 Wednesday not available

The Peter and Paul Fortress was founded by Peter the Great in 1703. Besides the ancient fortifications, the fortress includes the Peter and Paul Cathedral, built in the early XVIII century. The cathedral includes the burial...

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One of the finest architectural monuments of the XIX century, the former principal cathedral of the Russian capital has the capacity to accommodate 10,000 people. The cathedral is graced with 112 solid granite columns weighing...

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The tour will take the visitor throughout the historical center of St. Petersburg and includes spectacular views of the Neva River, Canal Griboyedova, Moika Canal, the many bridges connecting the city’s islands, the...

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The tour will take the visitor throughout the historical center of St. Petersburg and includes spectacular views of the Neva river, Canal Griboyedova, Moika canal, the many bridges connecting the city’s islands and...

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The Hermitage is one of the greatest museums in the world. The museum consists of five historical buildings including the Winter Palace – the residence of the Russian Tsars. The museum contains over 3 million pieces...

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The Michailovsky Palace where the Russian Museum is situated was built by the architect K. Rossi at the beginning of the XIX century for Alexander I´s brother Michail. It became a museum of Russian art at the end of...

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This is an extremely interesting palace excursion and St. Petersburg tour. The building is notable both for its beauty and for the historical events that have taken place within its walls. During our visit you will admire...

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St. Petersburg´s most Russian looking building. The cathedral would seem at home on Moscow´s Red Square with its onion shaped domes and multi colored facade. The cathedral is built on the site where Tsar Alexander...

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The largest monastery in Russia, Alexander Nevsky Lavra was built near the location where Grand Prince Alexander won his victory over the Swedes and the Teutonic Knights in 1240. Alexander is also buried inside the Lavra....

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Built in the late XVIII and early XIX centuries, Pavlovsk’s palace and park was used as a summer residence for emperor Paul I and his family. The landscape park, one of the largest in Europe, covers an area of 600 hectares....

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The Palace and Park of Tsarskoye Selo is a former country residence of the Russian Tsars. It is a fascinating monument of the world’s architectural and gardening arts of the XVIII-XIX centuries. Its 3 parks occupy an...

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Pavlosk was built in the late XVIII and early XIX centuries, the palace and park were used as a summer residence for emperor Paul I and his family. The landscape park, one of the largest in Europe, covers an area of 600 hectares....

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Peterhof is a jewel of Russian art – a town of parks, palaces and fountains. In the past, it was used as an exquisite summer residence by the Russian Tsars. Verkhniy Garden and Nizhniy Park, are genuine masterpieces...

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At 8.00 AM, our driver will pick you up to depart for Novgorod. Veliky Novgorod is one of Russia’s most ancient cities and was Russia’s first capital. No other Russian city can compete with Novgorod in the variety...

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St. Petersburg is a city of canals and viewing it from the water is an unforgettable experience. During your one hour trip, you will sail from Pevchesky bridge along the Moika river, into the Fontanka and Griboedova canal....

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This excursion will be exciting for those who are interested in the military history of Russia. The tour includes a visit to the Artillery Museum and the Central Naval Museum. There are large displays of weaponry and ammunition,...

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Learn more about the life and times of Dostoevsky on this most engaging excursion. Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoyevsky's literary works explore human psychology in the troubled political, social and spiritual context of 19th-century...

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Fyodor Dostoevsky, the famous Russian novelist, journalist and short-story writer spent much of his life in Russia’s Northern Capital, even though he was born in Moscow. In his novels, Saint Petersburg is depicted not...

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The city suffered on an almost unimaginable scale during the time of WWII. The bravery and courage of the citizens of Leningrad, as the city was called during that period, is well-known throughout Russia and the world. If...

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This tour will take you to different Soviet era sites in the city. During the period from 1924 until 1991 the city was known as Leningrad, named after the revolutionary leader, Vladimir Lenin. The first museum you are going...

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St Petersburg is a city of magnificent cathedrals and beautiful churches. During this tour you will get the chance to visit the St. Petersburg´s Orthodox Cathedrals that played an important role not only in the history...

St. Petersburg is often called the cradle of the Russian Revolution. If you want to know more about the political history of Russia, or just walk the paths of the revolutionary soldiers during the October 1917 Revolution...

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This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community in St. Petersburg. You will be taken to the Kolomna district, one of the oldest areas of St. Petersburg and the center of St....

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Learn more about the father of Russian literature, Alexander Pushkin with a visit to his house located on the Moika River Embankment. During your visit you will learn about Pushkin's life and see many of his personal belongings. Alexander...

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Express to Russia is the leader in travel to St. Petersburg Russia. The above individual St. Petersburg Russia city excursions can be arranged with a private translator/guide and driver. St. Petersburg is an amazingly beautiful city and there is so much to see. The best way to get to know Russia’s Northern Capital is by first taking a city tour and then choosing a number of other excursions that suit your taste. Whether you are interested in Russian history, art, music, literature or St. Petersburg’s magnificent monuments, we have just the right excursion to fit your needs.

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The Best Places to Travel This July, From Key West to Montenegro

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School’s out, the sun is shining, and it’s officially time to plan a proper summer vacation . The best places to travel in July are all about making those OOO days really count, even if it means venturing a bit off the radar—think diving tours off the coast of Bonaire, multi-day hiking trips through central Iceland, and Olympic Games viewing parties some 9,700 miles outside of Paris (more on that later). And if you’d rather fill your trip with more relaxing and less adventuring, fear not: We have plenty of destinations for you as well.

We know you’re probably itching for a spectacular holiday as much as we are, so we’ve gathered up a list of places that cover the geographical gamut. Whether you want to make an easy trip to one of the coolest cities in the US (we reveal that answer below) or take multiple flights to reach your final once-in-a-lifetime destination, here are 11 of the best places to travel in July.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is one of the best places to travel in July for one major reason: wildflowers . While you might consider spring to be the best time to see colorful flowers, the park’s northern location in Montana means the blooms reach their peak in July and August. Hike along the Garden Wall Trail to see fields of white beargrass, pink fireweed, and yellow glacier lilies as far as the eye can see.

When you’ve had your fill of hiking (and your phone is full of photos), head back to The Resort at Paws Up , a sprawling, 37,000-acre working cattle ranch in western Montana. Their safari-style canvas tents will make you feel like you’re in the Wild West, while locally sourced meals and spa treatments are worthy of a five-star hotel.

It’s not easy to find an uncrowded beach in Europe during the summer months, but the country of Montenegro is one of your best bets. It takes up less space than Connecticut and has a lower population than Stockholm , but the tiny Balkan nation should not be overlooked—especially since it’s quieter and more untouched than neighboring Croatia and Greece. Beyond the beaches, you can take advantage of the country’s historic Old Towns, UNESCO-protected parks, and lakes begging for a swim.

The country also happens to be home to Mamula Island Hotel , a former 19th-century fortress that was reimagined and unveiled in April 2023. Situated on its eponymous island in Boka Bay, this knockout property features sea-facing rooms, three dining venues, and a beautiful glass-covered internal courtyard. Try to book one of the contemporary panoramic suites in the crown of the main tower, complete with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and terraces equipped with telescopes for stargazing.

The Pantanal

Stretching across parts of southeastern Brazil , Paraguay, and Bolivia , the Pantanal is the world’s largest floodplain and boasts the highest concentration of wildlife on the entire South American continent (yes, even more than the Amazon). Here you can spot ultra-rare jaguars, crocodiles, monkeys, anacondas, and some 650 species of birds; and the dry season from July to October boasts the best visibility.

Note that reaching the Pantanal takes a bit of work: You must first fly to São Paulo (a great excuse to stay overnight at the São Paulo Rosewood ), then fly to the Campo Grande Airport in Mato Grosso, then either drive or take a chartered flight to your lodge. And that lodge should definitely be the upscale Caiman Ecological Reserve , a 204-square-mile refuge known for its luxury villas and local conservation efforts. Between visiting jaguar sanctuaries and horseback riding through the jungle, rest up at the reserve’s hammock garden, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy the starry sky from your private balcony.

Only 50 miles from Venezuela, Bonaire is the farthest east of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao). Since it sits outside the Hurricane Belt—and since its relatively remote location means its never as crowded as other Caribbean islands—there’s not really a bad time to visit; but July is one of the best months to spot animals both above and below sea level. The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary on the southern end of the island is home to more than 10,000 flamingos (July marks the tail end of breeding season), which you can spot from the road or nearby Pink Beach. 

But the most beautiful parts of Bonaire can be found just below the surrounding waters. The entire coral reef around the island is a national park (Bonaire National Marine Park), with brightly colored coral and wildlife ranging from nurse sharks and seahorses to friendly green turtles. There are 85 dive sites within the park and dozens of tour operators on the island, so there’s really no excuse to stay exclusively on dry land. 

Oaxaca, Mexico

Far from the coastal spring break hot spots of Cancún and Cabo San Lucas, Oaxaca , in south-central Mexico, is one of the most important cultural hubs in the Americas. Explore the region’s craft revolution led by female entrepreneurs, secure a table at Alejandro Ruiz’s Casa Oaxaca for traditional dishes and cocktails, then head to the streets for delicious tlayudas and tacos served from food trucks (our favorites for each: Tlayudas La Chinita, and Lechoncito de Oro, respectively).

An extra special reason to visit in July is the vibrant Guelaguetza Festival, which takes place on the last two Mondays of the month. The festival celebrates the 16 different ethnolinguistic groups of Oaxaca with folk dancing, traditional clothing, mezcal fairs, and concerts.

We named Mongolia one of the best places to travel in 2024 for several reasons, chief among them being the country’s relatively recent accessibility. Last year, Mongolia opened up visa-free travel for an additional 34 nationalities—bringing the total up to 61—in an effort to become a more popular tourist destination. (The campaign is set to run until 2025.) There are also talks of a direct US–Mongolia flight launching later this year.

July is an especially exciting time to visit Mongolia. This time every year, the country throws its annual Naadam Festival (July 11-13), an ancient-style version of the Olympics with horse racing, wrestling, and archery. The event appears on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list for its intrinsic connection to “the nomadic civilization of the Mongols,” and the competitions truly are a sight to behold. You can watch the opening ceremony in Ulaanbaatar’s National Sports Stadium then stick around for the archery and wrestling games; you’ll have to head to the Khui Doloon Khudag field outside of town to watch the horse races.

While people around the world are flocking to Paris this July for the 2024 Olympic Games, we suggest heading to Tahiti for a more tropical—but still sports-oriented—summer vacation. The southern coastal village of Teahupo’o will host the Olympic’s 10-day surf competition this year starting on July 27, and visitors can watch the event on giant screens set up in parks, beaches, and marinas across the island. This leg of the games is particularly exciting this year: It’s only the second time surfing has appeared on the Olympic program (it debuted in Tokyo in 2020), and Teahupo’o’s famous break is often dubbed one of “the deadliest waves in the world.” Surf’s up, indeed.

After all those secondhand adrenaline rushes, you’ll probably want to rest up in an impossibly luxurious resort—something Tahiti has in spades. The InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa has all the makings of a classic French Polynesian property, from thatched-roof overwater bungalows to holistic spa treatments. But if you have some extra time, consider hopping on a 20-minute flight north to Tetiaroa, home to The Brando . This ultra-remote, ultra-polished resort plops guests down on a private atoll surrounded by white sand and shallow, turquoise water. It’s just you and nature—with a spa, multi-course dining experience, and villa with a private plunge pool thrown in.

If you’ve spent any time in Chicago , you probably aren’t surprised that our readers consistently vote it the best large city in the United States . And if you haven’t spent time here? We suggest booking a trip to the Windy City stat. There are tons of summer activities for both first-time and seasoned travelers, including visiting the beaches along Lake Michigan, taking Chicago River boat tours, watching the fireworks at Navy Pier, and attending festivals like the Southport Art Fest (July 6 to 7) and Pitchfork Music Festival (July 19 to 21).

There’s no shortage of great hotels in the city , but do yourself a favor and book a few nights at The Peninsula Chicago , consistently voted one of the best properties in town by both our readers and editors. There are many reasons why this decades-old hotel has continued to impress, from that iconic 19th-floor spa to those epic marble bathrooms. We also have our eyes on citizenM Chicago Downtown —the hotel opened in late 2022, and its high-tech features and colorful, offbeat decor still feel delightfully fresh.

There really is no wrong time to visit Iceland, but we’re particularly fond of chasing the midnight sun during July—the more daylight hours for exploring, the better. The summer months also make certain parts of the country accessible that might not be in the winter, including the 34-mile Laugavegurinn hiking trail in the Central Highlands. The mountain huts and campsites along the trail are only open between late June and early September, giving you a small time window to experience the hot springs, black lava fields, and multicolored mountains along the path.

If the term “mountain hut” makes you cringe a little, fear not: Iceland has some luxury stays that might be more up your alley. The Reykjavik Edition opened in the nation’s capital a couple of years ago, featuring custom furniture, local treats in the minibars, and incredible city and harbor views. Making a splash further off the grid is Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll , a remote property with tons of accommodation options (hotel rooms, A-frame huts, campsites) and summer activities ranging from guided hikes to hot spring soaks.

Ernest Hemingway lived in Key West for the entirety of the 1930s, and the tiny island has been honoring him ever since—most notably with the Hemingway Days celebration held every July (this year’s dates are July 16-21). This annual event is piling on extra festivities this year, which marks the author’s 125th birthday anniversary. You can expect prose and poetry readings, a three-day marlin fishing tournament, and special museum exhibits, as well as the festival’s showstopping Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. Because what’s better than one Ernest Hemingway? Answer: 140 Ernest Hemingways.

Even if your trip doesn’t overlap with the exact Hemingway Days dates, you can still glimpse a piece of the author’s life at the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. Take guided tours of the house where For Whom the Bell Tolls was penned, then stroll through the surrounding gardens and try to spot the famous six-toe cats who roam the property. In terms of accommodations, you have many excellent hotels to choose from (our readers love The Marker )—or opt for something a little cheekier and book a room at the adults-only, clothing-optional Island House Key West Resort .

June–August marks the dry winter season in Botswana , which many consider to be the perfect time to visit. Not only are weather conditions at their best (no rain, lower risk of malaria), but these months offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities as animals tend to stick around watering holes. The country also happens to be one of our favorite safari spots in Africa. While you’re sure to spot wildlife in Kenya’s Maasai Mara or in South Africa’s Kruger, you’ll also be in the company of a couple dozen other jeeps filled with tourists; in Botswana, it feels like it’s only you and nature.

This year is a particularly exciting time to visit, because you’ll get the chance to be one of the earliest guests at North Island Okavango . This intimate micro-camp (and 2024 Hot List winner) occupies its own floating patch of land in the Okavango Delta, which means you have 24/7 lagoon views of hippos, elephants, and other wildlife. Suites with wraparound decks and walkways leading directly out onto the water let you get even closer to the action.

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Where Kamala Harris Stands on the Issues: Abortion, Immigration and More

She wants to protect the right to abortion nationally. Here’s what else to know about her positions.

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By Maggie Astor

• Published July 21, 2024 Updated Aug. 24, 2024

With Vice President Kamala Harris having replaced President Biden on the Democratic ticket, her stances on key issues will be scrutinized by both parties and the nation’s voters.

She has a long record in politics: as district attorney of San Francisco, as attorney general of California, as a senator, as a presidential candidate and as vice president.

Here is an overview of where she stands.

Ms. Harris supports legislation that would protect the right to abortion nationally, as Roe v. Wade did before it was overturned in 2022, in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

After the Dobbs ruling, she became central to the Biden campaign’s efforts to keep the spotlight on abortion, given that Mr. Biden — with his personal discomfort with abortion and his support for restrictions earlier in his career — was a flawed messenger. In March, she made what was believed to be the first official visit to an abortion clinic by a president or vice president.

She consistently supported abortion rights during her time in the Senate, including cosponsoring legislation that would have banned common state-level restrictions, like requiring doctors to perform specific tests or have hospital admitting privileges in order to provide abortions.

As a presidential candidate in 2019, she argued that states with a history of restricting abortion rights in violation of Roe should be subject to what is known as pre-clearance for new abortion laws — those laws would have to be federally approved before they could take effect. That proposal is not viable now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe.

Climate change

Ms. Harris has supported the Biden administration’s climate efforts , including legislation that provided hundreds of billions of dollars in tax credits and rebates for renewable energy and electric vehicles.

“It is clear the clock is not just ticking, it is banging,” she said in a speech last year , referring to increasingly severe and frequent disasters spurred by climate change. “And that is why, one year ago, President Biden and I made the largest climate investment in America’s history.”

During her 2020 presidential campaign, she emphasized the need for environmental justice , a framework that calls for policies to address the adverse effects that climate change has on poor communities and people of color. She has emphasized that as vice president as well.

In 2019, Ms. Harris, then a senator, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, introduced legislation that would have evaluated environmental rules and laws by how they affected low-income communities. It would have also established an independent Office of Climate and Environmental Justice Accountability and created a “senior adviser on climate justice” within several federal agencies. In 2020, Ms. Harris introduced a more sweeping version of the bill. None of the legislation was passed.

Ms. Harris was tasked with leading the Biden administration’s efforts to secure voting rights legislation, a job she asked for . The legislation — which went through several iterations but was ultimately blocked in the Senate — would have countered voting restrictions in Republican-led states, limited gerrymandering and regulated campaign finance more strictly.

This year, she met with voting rights advocates and described a strategy that included creating a task force on threats to election workers and challenging state voting restrictions in court.

She has condemned former President Donald J. Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. In a speech in 2022 marking the anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, she said that day had showed “what our nation would look like if the forces who seek to dismantle our democracy are successful.” She added, “What was at stake then, and now, is the right to have our future decided the way the Constitution prescribes it: by we the people, all the people.”

Economic policy

In campaign events this year, Ms. Harris has promoted the Biden administration’s economic policies, including the infrastructure bill that Mr. Biden signed, funding for small businesses, a provision in the Inflation Reduction Act that capped the cost of insulin for people on Medicare and student debt forgiveness.

She indicated at an event in May that the administration’s policies to combat climate change would also bring economic benefits by creating jobs in the renewable energy industry. At another event , she promoted more than $100 million in Energy Department grants for auto parts manufacturers to pivot to electric vehicles, which she said would “help to keep our auto supply chains here in America.”

As a senator, she introduced legislation that would have provided a tax credit of up to $6,000 for middle- and low-income families, a proposal she emphasized during her presidential campaign as a way to address income inequality.

Immigration

One of Ms. Harris’s mandates as vice president has been to address the root causes of migration from Latin America, like poverty and violence in migrants’ home countries. Last year, she announced $950 million in pledges from private companies to support Central American communities. Similar commitments made previously totaled about $3 billion.

In 2021, she visited the U.S.-Mexico border and said : “This issue cannot be reduced to a political issue. We’re talking about children, we’re talking about families, we are talking about suffering.”

More recently, she backed a bipartisan border security deal that Mr. Biden endorsed but Mr. Trump, by urging Republican lawmakers to kill it , effectively torpedoed. The legislation would have closed the border if crossings reached a set threshold, and it would have funded thousands of new border security agents and asylum officers. “We are very clear, and I think most Americans are clear, that we have a broken immigration system and we need to fix it,” Ms. Harris said in March .

Israel and Gaza

Ms. Harris called in March for an “immediate cease-fire” in Gaza and described the situation there as a “humanitarian catastrophe.” She said that “the threat Hamas poses to the people of Israel must be eliminated” but also that “too many innocent Palestinians have been killed.”

In an interview later that month , she emphasized her opposition to an Israeli invasion of Rafah, the city in southern Gaza to which more than a million people had fled. “I have studied the maps,” she said. “There’s nowhere for those folks to go, and we’re looking at about 1.5 million people in Rafah who are there because they were told to go there, most of them.”

She has said on multiple occasions that she supports a two-state solution.

Racial justice

Racial justice was a theme of Ms. Harris’s presidential campaign. In a memorable debate exchange in 2019 , she denounced Mr. Biden’s past work with segregationist senators and opposition to school busing mandates.

She has called for ending mandatory minimum sentences, cash bail and the death penalty, which disproportionately affect people of color.

Amid the protests that followed the police killing of George Floyd in 2020, she was one of the senators who introduced the Justice in Policing Act, which would have made it easier to prosecute police officers, created a national registry of police misconduct and required officers to complete training on racial profiling. It was not passed.

Her record as a prosecutor also came into play during her presidential campaign. Critics noted that as attorney general of California, she had generally avoided stepping in to investigate police killings.

Maggie Astor covers politics for The New York Times, focusing on breaking news, policies, campaigns and how underrepresented or marginalized groups are affected by political systems. More about Maggie Astor

Learn more about the current Tour Updates . Safety and health is our priority.

A day trip is a great way to visit New England and the metro areas’ must-dos as well as hidden gems. From harbor cruises to museums to historic landmarks, even lunch with a spectacular show, Friendship Tours offers an impressive variety of fun-filled Motorcoach Day Trips. And whether yours is a large group or just a small get together of friends, we can turn any day into an unforgettable day. Leave the driving, tour planning, and parking to us. Our experienced drivers and expert Tour Directors will be there to ensure a worry free day.

Day Trips depart from several convenient departure points throughout Connecticut & Massachusetts, including Manchester, Farmington, Waterbury, Danbury, and West Springfield, MA. The departures locations vary depending on each trip, please refer to the description in each trip listing for details.

NEW DATE ADDED! Thimble Islands Cruise & Amarante's Sea Cliff Lunch, Stony Creek, CT

Sep 12, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Oak Bluffs - Martha's Vineyard, MA

Sep 14, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Gilded Age Berkshires, MA- The Mount & Tour of the Berkshires

Sep 15, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

The Big E - Connecticut Day, West Springfield, MA

Sep 18, 2024 1 day(s)

Clark Art Institute - TWO SPECIAL EXHIBITS: "Edgar Degas" & "Treasures from Corning Museum of Glass", Williamstown, MA

Sep 21, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

NEW DATE ADDED! Bronx Zoo - Total Experience Package

Sep 21, 2024 1 day(s)

Charles Riverboat Cruise & Cheesecake Factory, Cambridge, MA

Sep 22, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Garlic Festival & Hudson River Cruise, Saugerties, NY

Sep 28, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Made in Vermont - Country Shopping in Southern Vermont

Train & turkey dinner along lake winnipesaukee, nh.

Sep 29, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Site of the most famous Art Heist, Boston, MA

Oct 2, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Halloween in Salem, MA - Salem Witch Museum

Oct 5, 2024 1 day(s)

Oct 6, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

NEW DATE ADDED! Ellis Island & Statue of Liberty

Oct 6, 2024 1 day(s)

Stormville Flea Market, NY

Oct 12, 2024 1 day(s)

Jack O'Lantern Spectacular & Harvest Buffet Dinner, Roger Williams Park Zoo, RI

Oct 13, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

NEW DATE ADDED! Train & Turkey Dinner along Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Oktoberfest celebration at krucker's, pomona, ny.

Oct 16, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Day in New York City - 'My Way'

Oct 19, 2024 1 day(s)

Fall Country Day in New Hampshire- Cathedral of the Pines, Woodbound Inn & Country Shopping

Oct 19, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Majestic Theater: Shear Madness Matinee Show & Storrowton Tavern, W. Springfield, MA

Oct 20, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Villa Roma Resort - Lunch & Tribute Show to The Bee Gees - 'Stayin' Alive'

Oct 22, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Intrepid Air, Space, Sea Museum, NYC

Oct 26, 2024 1 day(s)

9/11 Museum & Memorial, NYC

Oct 27, 2024 1 day(s)

Walktoberfest at the Walkway Over the Hudson, NY

Encore boston harbor casino, ma.

Nov 2, 2024 1 day(s)

Boston Museum of Fine Arts, Exhibit - Dali: Disruption & Devotion

Nov 3, 2024 1 day(s)

The New England Christmas Festival at Mohegan Sun

Nov 9, 2024 1 day(s)

Radio City Christmas Show - Sun 2:00p show

Nov 10, 2024 1 day(s)

Resorts World Catskills Casino, Matinee Show: 'The Magic of Manilow'

Nov 13, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

American Dream Shopping Complex, Meadowlands - East Rutherford, NJ

Nov 16, 2024 1 day(s)

Radio City Christmas Show - Sat 5:00p show

Radio city christmas show - sun 12:00p show.

Nov 17, 2024 1 day(s)

Radio City Christmas Show - Wed 2:00p show

Nov 20, 2024 1 day(s)

Newport Playhouse - Lunch, Play & Cabaret Show

Nov 21, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Plymouth Thanksgiving Parade, MA

Nov 23, 2024 1 day(s)

Metropolitan Opera - LaBoheme

Nov 24, 2024 1 day(s)

LaSalette Shrine - Festival of Lights, Attleboro, MA

Nov 30, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Radio City Christmas Show - Thur 2:00p show

Dec 5, 2024 1 day(s)

Essex, CT Main Street Christmas - Florence Griswold Holiday Trees, Griswold Inn, Model Train Show

Dec 7, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

CHRISTMASTIME EXTRAVAGANZA at Reagle Music Theatre, Waltham, MA

Dec 8, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Goodspeed Opera House - 'A Christmas Story'

Dec 12, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Dec 12, 2024 1 day(s)

Cocoa & Carols Holiday Cruise & Snowport Market, Boston

Dec 14, 2024 1 day(s)

Candlelight Christmas, Old Sturbridge Village, MA

Dec 15, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Holiday Tea & Music at Caramoor, Katonah, NY

Dec 17, 2024 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Dec 28, 2024 1 day(s)

American Museum of Natural History & Space Show, NYC

Feb 15, 2025 1 day(s)

Fireplace Feast & Horse Drawn Sleigh Ride, Salem Cross Inn, MA

Feb 22, 2025 1 day(s)

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, Lyndhurst, NJ

Feb 23, 2025 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC - The American Wing at 100

Mar 8, 2025 1 day(s)

The Celtic Brothers of Ireland starring The Willoughby Brothers - Lunch & Show - Danversport, MA

Mar 11, 2025 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Maple Madness - Robb Family Farm Sugar House & Maple Breakfast

Mar 13, 2025 1 day(s) | 1 meals

New York Botanical Garden- The Orchid Show

Mar 29, 2025 1 day(s)

Woodbury Common Premium Outlets & Brotherhood Winery Tasting, NY

Apr 5, 2025 1 day(s)

Taste of Italian New York & Carmine's

Apr 12, 2025 1 day(s) | 1 meals

Metropolitan Opera - Aida

Apr 27, 2025 1 day(s)

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We have 11 holidays listed for July 9.

National Sugar Cookie Day

Argentina independence day.

Independence means voluntary restraints and discipline, and voluntary acceptance of the rule of law.

Call of the Horizon Day

Stick around and let us unravel some interesting and useful facts about this day.

Fashion Day

Explore your inner style and try out new fashion trends and looks this Fashion Day.

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Join us as we celebrate the first sermon of Lord Buddha!

Martyrdom of the Bab

Learn about the Bahai faith and the most defining event in its religious history.

National Don't Put all your Eggs in One Omelet Day

Whisk your eggs and heat up the pan. It’s time to make a good omelet.

Nunavut Day

Every year we celebrate Nunavut Day — the day the Parliament of Canada passed the Nunavut Act.

Palau Constitution Day

Get to know the history of Palau and the nation’s journey to becoming a republic.

State Rebellion Day

Today, we join the Paulistas in commemorating the Constitutional Revolution of 1932.

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July 9: Facts & Historical Events On This Day

Did you know that on this day, July 9, 1988, Donald Trump became Mike Tyson's advisor?

July 9th is officially National Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Omelet Day and Sugar Cookie Day.

Today marks day 191 of the year, and we have 175 days left in 2024.

Find out all about July 9th right here as we take a look at historic events that happened on this day.

Did you know that on this day in 1988, Donald Trump became Mike Tyson’s advisor? He was to advise on both business and boxing, though he hired an expert to assist with the latter.

Keep reading for more fun & interesting facts about July 9 th in history!

What memorable events happened on July 9 in history? Keep reading to find out!

Comic-Con celebrated its 48th yearly event in San Diego.

The british tv series “the office” first aired on the bbc., donald trump became mike tyson’s advisor..

Nintendo released the Donkey Kong arcade game in Japan.

Nasa’s voyager 2 flew past jupiter, continuing its journey towards saturn..

The Voyager 2 was sent to fly by Jupiter and Saturn to collect data. After it successfully made it to Saturn, NASA provided additional funding for a flyby of Uranus and authorized an extended flyby of Neptune.

Andy Warhol presented his artwork for the first time at the Ferus Gallery, Los Angeles, US.

Attendees weren’t expecting to turn up to find 32 paintings of Campbell’s Soup.

Rock Around the Clock by Bill Haley & Comets reached #1 on the US singles charts.

British princess elizabeth got engaged to lieutenant philip mountbatten..

The couple met in 1934 at the royal wedding between Princess Marina and Prince George. They tied the knot on November 20, 1947, at Westminster Abbey, London.

A fire broke out in 20th Century Fox’s New Jersey film storage facility.

Film at the time was made from nitrocellulose, an incredibly volatile and flammable substance. The film in the storage facility is believed to have spontaneously combusted, causing the death of one employee and the destruction of almost all silent films created by the Fox Film Corporation prior to 1932.

Several internal explosions inside Britain’s HMS Vanguard battleship occurred at Scapa Flow, Orkney Islands, Scotland.

845 men were on board, and only three survived the disaster.

The Federation of Australia was given Royal Assent.

The Commonwealth of Australia became a nation the following year on January 1. Australia was previously made up of six separate British colonies: Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and Western Australia.

The first-ever Wimbledon Championship began.

The men’s tennis tournament ran until July 19 at the All England Croquet Club in Wimbledon, London, England.

The first president of the United States of America, George Washington, read the Declaration of Independence.

Nineteen dutch catholic clerics, secular and religious people, known as the martyrs of gorkum, were hanged in brielle, the netherlands, by militant dutch calvinists..

This occurred during the Dutch War of Independence; this was aside from the 16th-century religious wars which happened in the Netherlands.

Famous Births

Are you celebrating your birthday today? If so, did you know that you share the same birthday as Tom Hanks? See what other famous people were born on this day.

68 years old

California, USA

Mitchel Musso

33 years old

Douglas Booth

32 years old

England, UK

49 years old

Michigan, USA

Memorable quotes are being said or written every day. Here we have the most notable quotes ever said on July 9th.

I can’t pretend that I’m brave and that I can beat the whole world.

Nelson Mandela

South African President

Remember your humanity, and forget the rest.

Bertrand Russell

British Mathematician

A scientific man ought to have no wishes, no affections – a mere heart of stone.

Charles Darwin

English Naturalist

Special Holidays

If you’re looking for something to do today, maybe these special holidays might just help to cure your boredom!

National Sugar Cookie Day

The best thing about sugar cookies is that you probably already have all the ingredients at home, and they’re effortless to make! So even if you’re not a good baker, try your hand at making sugar cookies today. You’ll be amazed how quickly they disappear!

National Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Omelet Day

Putting all your efforts and time into one project increases your risk of being left with nothing, so it’s best to reduce this risk by focusing on a few options simultaneously. Remember this important lesson today as it’s National Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Omelet Day!

THe Fact Site’s

Fun Fact Of The Day

There is a company that sells mirrors that make people look 10 pounds thinner. Overall, the mirrors have contributed to 54% of total sales for retailers that use them.

Birthday & Zodiac

People who were born on July 9 all share the Cancer star sign.

Cancers tend to have excellent listening skills and show a genuine interest in people. Because of this, Cancers generally do well as therapists, bodyworkers, and energy healers.

People born during July have the Ruby birthstone. Did you know that the largest ruby ever discovered is called the 125West? It’s an 18,696-carat gemstone that weighs a total of 8.2 pounds (3.7 kg). Traditionally the ruby symbolizes love, passion & energy.

If you were born on this day, you would likely have been conceived on or around October 16 of the previous year.

Babies conceived on July 9th, 2024, will likely be born around April 1st , 2025.

Popular On This Day

22 Terrific Facts About Tuesday

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10 Fun Facts About The Number 9

July | Special Days of the Year

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New England Wanderlust

Cape Cod , Connecticut , Maine , Martha's Vineyard , Massachusetts , Nantucket , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Vermont  ·  January 14, 2023

35 Fun Day Trips In New England To Take In 2024

Between gorgeous, historic cities to some of the most stunning coastline the U.S. has to offer, New England offers an incredible variety of day trip destinations for pretty much anyone. Whether you’re looking to tackle some epic hikes in the mountains, spend the day by the beach, get lost on cobblestone streets or spend your day eating all the amazing food, I’ve got you covered with my suggestions on the absolute best day trips in New England!

Hi there, and welcome! I’ve been exploring the New England region for over 15 years now, and I also live locally in the northeast. My favorite thing in the world is to explore this corner of the U.S., and I’ve covered a lot of ground over the years. I truly believe that all of the places I’ve included on this list are worth your time, and are easy to navigate with just one day.

I’ve also grouped each destination by season, but it’s good to know that pretty much all of these suggestions are wonderful year-round . In fact, it was really hard to group some of them into a specific season because many of them offers incredible things to do year-round. So, while I’ve made some seasonal suggestions, keep in mind that most places are truly perfect throughout the entire year.

Are you ready? Let’s get started!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

Best Day Trips In New England In The Summer

1. provincetown, ma.

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Plymouth, other towns on Cape Cod, Massachusetts North & South Shore.

One of the most unique towns in the entire U.S. is Provincetown, and because it’s small and easily walkable, it makes for a perfect day trip in New England.

Provincetown is an especially easy day trip for those coming from Boston and Plymouth, as there are ferries that will take you right to MacMillan Pier in downtown Provincetown. Both ferry options only take 90 minutes, making them very convenient options.

🛳 Click here to check out the ferry from Boston to Provincetown!

🛳 Click here to checkout the ferry from Plymouth to Provincetown!

During the summer season, a free shuttle takes visitors from MacMillan Pier to Race Point and Herring Cove beaches, which are two of the most beautiful beaches on Cape Cod. And once you’re in Ptown (as the locals call it!), you can easily walk everywhere.

Top things to check out in Provincetown:

• The Cape Cod National Seashore
• Commercial Street
• Lobster Pot restaurant
• Pilgrim Monument
• The real pilgrim landing site
• Beautiful art galleries

→ Click here to read my full guide on even more awesome things to do in Provincetown!

2. Nantucket, MA

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod

One of the best day trips from Cape Cod is Nantucket Island, and I also think it’s one of the best places to see in all of New England . Filled with picturesque coastal scenery around every turn, I always describe Nantucket as both modern and stuck in time. Between the historic homes and cobblestone streets, breathtaking beaches and the most charming downtown boutiques, it’s the perfect way to spend a day when in the area.

→ Click here to read my guide on everything you need to know about a Nantucket day trip!

3. Martha’s Vineyard

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod, Boston , New Bedford

Martha’s Vineyard is the other Cape Cod island that’s popular for summer vacations and day trips, and for good reason! It’s a bit bigger than Nantucket, but the ferry ride over from Cape Cod is shorter. And with 6 gorgeous towns to explore, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun on a day trip.

While there is no direct ferry from Boston to Martha’s Vineyard, there is a day tour that you can book that will take care of all the transportation for you! This is a great way to plan a summer escape from the city without having to drive yourself.

🚐 Click here to book your Boston to Martha’s Vineyard tour!

Here are some other Martha’s Vineyard posts you may find helpful :

• The Ultimate Guide To A Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip!
• Is Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket Better For A Day Trip?
• How To See Martha’s Vineyard Without A Car
• Best Things To Do On Martha’s Vineyard

4. Block Island, RI

Best as a day trip from: Newport, Boston, Providence and surrounding Rhode Island areas

As much as I love Cape Cod and the Islands, I think Block Island is such a special place and deserves more hype. This little island sits off the coast of Point Judith, RI, and is a short 30-60 minute ferry from there, making this a very easy day trip from the Ocean State!

And one of the amazing things about this little island is that all the beaches are completely free for all visitors, which is a rare thing in New England. In addition to that, there are some really wonderful restaurants, a cute downtown and some gorgeous sites to see.

→ Click here to read my full guide on taking a Block Island day trip!

5. Newport, RI

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Providence and surrounding areas

Nicknamed The City By The Sea, Newport feels more like a charming coastal town than a vibrant city. Packed with history, stunning Gilded Age mansions, character, beautiful coastline views, beaches, and an exciting culinary scene, there are so many fun things to do there that make for a perfect day trip in New England.

The biggest tip I have for you about Newport in the summer is that it can get busy, which means parking can sometimes be challenging. I highly recommend that you park and leave your car for the entire day, rather than trying to drive everywhere. Newport is pretty walkable, but a great option is taking a trolley tour so you can see the major sites in a short amount of time.

This particular tour also includes admission to The Breakers Mansion, which is one of the top things to see in Newport: → Click here to check out the trolley & Breakers Mansion tour in Newport

Newport also offers amazing tours out on the water! A great way to end your day trip is with a sunset cruise, and this is an awesome one to consider: → Click here to check out this sunset cruise in Newport!

→ Click here to read my full guide on a Newport day trip!

6. Westerly, RI

Best as a day trip from: Newport, Boston, Providence and surrounding areas

Westerly is one of the best beach towns in Rhode Island for a summer vacation or day trip! With miles of gorgeous shoreline to explore across several stunning beaches, this is the perfect place to spend a hot summer day.

And not only are the beaches absolutely beautiful, there’s also a charming downtown with awesome restaurants and shops to explore. Westerly is also home to the charming village of Watch Hill, which is where you’ll find a lighthouse, the iconic Ocean House resort, Napatree Point (pictured above!) and lots of beautiful scenery.

Here are some other great things to check out in Westerly:

• Misquamicut State Beach – the best public beach in town!
• Tapped Apple Cidery & Winery
• Grey Sail Brewing
• Sailing tour with Sail Trim Again

Tips for visiting Watch Hill in Westerly : Parking here in tough during high season (summer) and on weekends. The free parking spots are limited to 2 hours, so if you plan to dine anywhere, or spend time at the beaches, you’ll want to arrange for paid parking in one of the lots. Parking around the rest of Westerly isn’t as big of an issue.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Westerly, RI & Watch Hill!

7. Kennebunkport, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Massachusetts North Shore, Boston

Honestly, Kennebunkport is an amazing coastal destination year-round because they really know how to celebrate what’s special about each season. In fact, their Christmas events have put this cute little community on the map as one of the best Christmas towns in the U.S.! But the summer is definitely one of the most popular season to experience Kennebunkport.

This town really has it all – lovely stores and restaurants, a quaint downtown, New England charm, dramatic coastline and gorgeous beaches. Here are a few wonderful things to do on a Kennebunkport day trip:

• Walk Parson’s Way for amazing coastal views (and see the famous Bush compound!)
• Walk through the shops at Dock Square.
• Visit the beaches (Gooch’s, Mother’s and Goose Rocks).
• Get a lobster roll from The Clam Shack.
• Take a lobster boat tour with Rugosa.

8. Ogunquit, ME

Another charming town that’s perfect for enjoying a summer day in Maine is Ogunquit. This destination is home to one of the best beaches in Maine – Ogunquit Beach, which has 3 miles of beautiful, soft, sandy shoreline to enjoy.

In addition to the beach, you’ll find an incredibly charming town with great shops and restaurants, and one of my absolute favorite things to do in all of Maine – Marginal Way, which is a gorgeous pedestrian path along the coastline.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Ogunquit!

9. Boothbay Harbor, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland and surrounding areas.

Located between Portland and Acadia National Park, you’ll find the adorable town of Boothbay Harbor. While this destination is great during spring, summer and fall, summer is one of the best times to visit because all the seasonal restaurants and boat tours will be open, allowing you to get the full experience during your trip.

One of the reasons I love Boothbay Harbor so much is because of all the amazing options available for boat tours. Boats here go a bit further north than tours that depart from Portland, so you’ll get to see some more remote parts of the coastline, lighthouses and incredible wildlife. They even offer tours to see a puffin colony!

One of the coolest tours to take during a day trip is the Seals, Lighthouses & Lobster Trap tour , which offers so many great things to see in just 1.5 hours. During the cruise, you’re also likely to spot some seals in the water, and watch a real lobster trap haul.

→ Click here to check rates & availability for the Seals, Lighthouses & Lobster Trap Tour

Psst! I have a detailed guide on the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor , if you need more ideas for your day trip 😉

10. Lubec, ME

Best as a day trip from: Bar Harbor, Bangor

Okay, so Lubec is a bit more challenging as a day trip because it’s so remote, and pretty close to the Canadian border, but I wanted to include it on this list for anyone looking for an amazing day trip option that’s a bit of a hidden gem.

Lubec offers absolutely stunning opportunities for hiking and coastline views, and is also home to the famous red and white striped lighthouse, West Quoddy Light. I also love that it’s a quaint and quiet little fishing village that not many people visit. The actual village itself doesn’t have a ton to do, but I think the landscapes and hiking here are more than worth the effort to visit.

A few things that are a must for a day trip:

• Explore West Quoddy State Park to see the lighthouse and do some of the walking trails.
• Hike the Boot Head Preserve trail.
• Taste the local beer at Lubec Brewing Company.
• Take a boat tour to Old Sow Whirlpool.

→ Click here to read my full guide on even more things to do in Lubec!

11. Mystic, CT

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Newport, Providence

One of the most charming towns along the Connecticut coast is Mystic, made famous, of course, by the movie Mystic Pizza . Mystic makes for a wonderful day trip in the area because it’s small and walkable, offers boat tours along the river and is close to the Connecticut Wine Trail, which is incredibly fun and scenic!

One of the top things to do in Mystic is the Mystic Seaport Museum , which is a highly interactive museum that’s built to replicate a historic New England ship yard and town. You can climb aboard historic tall ships and admire the views of the river while learning about its incredible history. This is actually a really fun way to spend a few hours in Mystic (and I’m not usually a museum person!).

→ Click here to get your ticket to the Mystic Seaport Museum

Psst! I have an entire guide on the best things to do in Mystic, CT if you’re looking for more ideas 😉

12. Manchester, VT

Best as a day trip from: The Berkshires, Northwestern Massachusetts, surrounding areas in Vermont

While Vermont is known as a top fall and winter destination in New England, I especially love to visit Manchester in the summer. Located in southern Vermont, this cute little town is home to some really fun ways to cool down on hot summer days, including swimming in a rock quarry and floating down a river in an inner tube.

The Dorset Marble Quarry is just a few minutes from downtown Manchester, and is a really cool and unique place to go for a swim. And with Vermont River Runners , you can rent an inner tube and float down the Battenkill River. They’ll even pick you up at the end do you don’t have to worry about getting back to your car!

Once you’re done splashing in the water, you can also explore the cute little downtown, which has some lovely shops and eateries, and maybe even visit Hildene , which is a former Lincoln family home, and boasts stunning garden displays and mountain views.

13. Shelburne Falls, MA

This small little town nestled in The Berkshires has been made famous by its No. 1 attraction – the Bridge of Flowers. And honestly? It’s worth the type.

Once an old trolley bridge that became obsolete is now a beautiful and cheerful display of colorful flowers from spring to fall. But in the summer, you’ll find the most blooms to enjoy during your visit.

Shelbune Falls also has a Trolley Museum, brewery and one of the oldest bowling alleys in the country, so you’ll definitely be able to fill your day trip with cool things to do.

14. Gloucester, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Portland, Massachusetts North Shore, Plymouth

Gloucester is another destination that’s really great to visit in spring, summer and fall, but since it’s home to one of the best beaches along the North Shore, it makes for an especially wonderful day trip in New England in the summer months.

Wingaersheek Beach is a beautiful spot for swimming, and makes for an awesome escape from city life in Boston and Portland. You can easily spend your entire day just at the beach, as it has a snack shack, and provides a beautiful sunset.

Gloucester is also one of the best locations in the Northeast for whale watching! Tours from Gloucester cruise to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is regarded as the best spot in New England for spotting wildlife.

→ Click here to book your whale watch in Gloucester!

Gloucester is also home to a beautiful lighthouse, wonderful downtown with shops and amazing restaurants, and a waterfront park to explore.

Best New England Day Trips In The Fall

15. bar harbor/acadia national park.

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Bangor

While Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor can be challenging to do as a day trip because of their location, it’s absolutely worth the effort! Acadia National Park, especially, is one of the best things to see in all of New England, so even a day spent here is better than not seeing it at all. And during the fall season, you’ll experience better temperatures for hiking, as well as stunning fall foliage.

But honestly, spring and summer are equally as great, so it’s really personal preference on when you plan your day trip!

Psst! I have a full Acadia National Park itinerary , which includes a bonus day trip itinerary option, and a guide on the best time to visit Acadia National Park , which you may find helpful 😉

16. Springfield, MA For The Big E Fair

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Providence, Newport, Mystic

One of the best days trips to take to celebrate the end of summer and beginning of fall is Springfield, so you can attend The Big E, which is the biggest fair in New England!

All 6 of the New England states take part in this fair, and between the awesome fair and regional foods, rides, shopping, exhibitions, live performances and so much more, it really is the quintessential fair experience. Many people come from all over the region to attend, so you know it must be good.

17. Salem, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Massachusetts North & South Shore, Providence, Plymouth

Salem is regarded as one of the top Halloween destinations in the entire world, so it rarely needs an introduction. But I can honestly say that it really is such a fun place to experience during the month of October. And because it’s smaller than most people realize, it’s actually very easy to explore in a day.

Since Salem is about all things spooky, I highly suggest getting into the spirit and doing a spooky tour of some sort. There are so many tours offered in Salem that talk about everything from the fascinating history, to Hocus Pocus filing locations to all the very creepy ghost sightings.

A great tour that’s perfect for most people is this History & Hauntings Tour, which talks about the history with a few spooky facts thrown in for good measure : → Click here to book the History & Hauntings Tour in Salem!

Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip , and the best time to visit Salem if you need more information 😉

18. Plymouth, MA

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod, Boston, Massachusetts South & North Shore, Providence, Newport

Plymouth is one of the oldest towns in the entire U.S., so of course, it’s absolutely worth a day trip if in the area! And while it’s known for its history, it’s also home to some beautiful parks and a cute downtown.

The reason I love Plymouth for a day trip in the fall is because there’s something about this area that reminds me so much of “back to school,” and it also does a fantastic job celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday, of course! It’s also one of the last parts of New England to hit peak fall foliage, so if you’re looking for a foliage destination in early November, Plymouth is perfect for that timeframe!

However, Plymouth is, of course, wonderful year-round, too 😊

The top attraction in Plymouth is the Plimoth Patuxet Museum, which immerses visitors into the life of the early settlers. You can even climb aboard the Mayflower II, which is a working replica of the original Mayflower! → Click here to get your tickets to the Plimoth Patuxet Museums!

In addition to the museums, some other great things to check out in Plymouth are:

• Mirbeau Spa
• The shops and eateries downtown
• Brewster Gardens
• Pilgrim Memorial State Park
• Plymouth Bay Winery
• Plymouth Long Beach

Psst! I have an entire post on visiting Plymouth, MA , if you need more ideas for your day trip!

19. Marblehead, MA

Along the Massachusetts North Shore is the beautiful town of Marblehead, which is really great to visit in both summer and fall. But fall is an especially beautiful time to visit because of the stunning foliage displays, of course.

While walking around to enjoy the foliage, you’ll also want to be sure to visit the charming shops in the historic district, enjoy the coastal views from Castle Rock Park, take a walk on Devereux Beach and admire the gorgeous, historic New England homes.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Marblehead!

20. Newburyport, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Portland, Massachusetts North & South Shore

Newburyport is another destination that’s truly wonderful year-round, but I especially love it in the fall because of all the fall color. This is also one of my top places to visit for shopping, and even Boston Magazine named Tannery Marketplace in Newburyport one of the best places for shopping on the North Shore.

Newburyport is also pretty small, and the downtown area is very walkable, making this a perfect day trip option. It’s also home to Plum Island, which has beautiful beaches, as well as the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, which has gorgeous nature trails to explore.

Here are a few awesome things to do on a Newburyport day trip:

• Stroll along the waterfront park.
• Explore all the amazing shops in Market Square and Tannery Marketplace.
• Visit Maudslay State Park.
• Drive to Plum Island to see the beaches, and hit the scenic trails in the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.

→ Click here to read my full guide on visiting Newburyport!

21. The Berkshires

Best as a day trip from: Northwestern Massachusetts, surrounding Vermont areas

During the fall season, The Berkshires puts on a beautiful foliage display, and this is one of the most cozy places to be this time of the year. Between all the amazing hiking opportunities, quaint towns and gorgeous mountain landscapes, it also makes for a fun and adventurous day trip in Massachusetts.

The Berkshires is actually made up of 31 towns and 2 cities, so it’s a pretty big area to tackle in a day trip, but that just means you have a lot of exciting activities to choose from. Here are a few awesome things to consider for a fall day trip to The Berkshires:

• Go seasonal beer and hard cider tasting (there are tons of options!).
• Admire the foliage during a ziplining tour with Berkshire East Mountain Resort.
• Drive or hike to the summit of Mount Greylock for amazing fall foliage views.
• Pick apples, hike and sample the local wine at Hilltop Orchards.

22. Woodstock, VT

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding Vermont areas , White Mountains

One of the top fall foliage destinations in the entire U.S. is Vermont, and Woodstock is one of the most charming and picturesque towns to experience. In Woodstock, not only will you get the enjoy some of the best fall foliage in Vermont , you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie set when you arrive to the cute little town.

Woodstock’s village is about as perfect as can be with beautiful boutiques and quaint restaurants. In the center of town, there’s even a covered bridge!

But just outside of the village, you’ll find Billings Farm & Museum, which is regarded as one of the best interactive agricultural museums in the country. You can also visit Sugarbush Farms to sample their own maple syrups and cheeses, and enjoy stunning mountain views dripping in fall color.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Woodstock!

23. Burlington, VT

Another wonderful day trip in Vermont in the fall season is Burlington. As the largest city in the state, it has a lot to offer including the beautiful Lake Champlain, amazing restaurants, art galleries, breweries and so much more.

In fact, one of the most fun things to do in Burlington on a day trip is dive into the local brewing scene with a tour!

Vermont produces some of the top beers in the country, and this tour is led by a local expert that gives you all the insider tips, and allows you to sample up to 12 different beers. This time of the year, there are likely to be seasonal beers available, too. → Click here to book your brewery tour in Burlington!

You’ll also want to be sure to walk the waterfront path along Lake Champlain for beautiful fall foliage views, and hit up Church Street Marketplace to enjoy the local shops.

24. Littleton, NH

Best as a day trip from: Vermont, surrounding New Hampshire areas

One of my personal favorite towns in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire is Littleton. Not only has it been named of the best Main Streets in the entire country, it’s home to a charming little community with awesome shops, restaurants, a brewery, and the world’s largest candy counter (it’s true!).

And since it’s only about 20 minutes from some of the top fall foliage sites in Franconia Notch State Park (like Flume Gorge and Echo Lake), this is the perfect day trip to take while exploring the area.

→ Click here to read my full guide on all the best things to do in Littleton .

25. Montpelier, VT

Montpelier is Vermont’s capital, and I think it’s a very underrated destination in the area. The cool thing about Montpelier is that it’s a city that feels like both a city and a quaint town at the same time, so exploring for the day is very easy to do. And during the fall season, there are a lot of fun seasonal activities you can enjoy.

Here are a few things you should look into for a Montpelier day trip in the fall:

• The annual Enchanted Forest Celebration in October.
• Visit Peck Farm Orchard to pick apples, get some cider donuts and sample their hard cider.
• Stroll through town to visit the boutiques and eateries.
• Head to Hubbard Park to enjoy the fall foliage.
• Drive to nearby Groton State Forest to tackle some fall foliage hikes.

26. Litchfield Hill, CT

Best as a day trip from: Mystic, The Berkshires, New Haven, Hartford

Fun fact: Amy Sherman Palladino based Stars Hollow on a few towns in the Litchfield Hills area of Connecticut, so this is one of the best New England day trips for Gilmore Girls fans. It’s said that Washington Depot was her main inspiration, but many have claimed that New Milford’s town green feels most like a Stars Hollow set.

But even if you know nothing about Gilmore Girls , this is an incredibly stunning area to visit for a day trip, especially in the fall. You’ll find covered bridges, scenic drives, cozy restaurants, quaint towns and state parks that will be ablaze with foliage color this time of the year. And since all the small towns are pretty close to one another, you can easily see most of them in one day trip.

The towns in Litchfield county also have tons of fun fall festivals and events that take place through September and October, and those are worth checking out.

Here are some awesome ideas for the perfect fall day trip to the Litchfield Hills:

• Explore the charming town of Kent, including Bull’s Covered Bridge and Kent Falls State Park.
• Drive the scenic Route 7 to New Milford to enjoy the town green, and take in stunning foliage views from Lovers Leap State Park.
• Enjoy the picturesque town of Washington Depot, and sample the local wines at Hopkins Vineyard.
• Drive to Litchfield and enjoy getting lost in the Bunnell Farm corn maze, and explore the cute town.

Best New England Day Trips In The Winter

27. stowe, vt.

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding Vermont areas, White Mountains

Stowe is hard to beat as a charming, small town winter day trip in Vermont. It’s also one of the best places in Vermont in the fall season, but I decided to add it to the winter section because it has a little something extra in the winter that just feels magical.

In January, you can visit during their winter carnival to see professional ice sculptors in action. And you can also plan a visit to the Spruce Peak Lodge resort to skate at their scenic ice rink, and enjoy lunch at one of their restaurants.

And, of course, you can’t talk about Stowe without mentioning the ski resort, which is continually voted as one of the best in the region. If you love to hit the slopes in the winter, this is one of the best day trips you can take in New England!

→ Click here to read my full guide on all the best things to do in Stowe!

28. Camden, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Bar Harbor, surrounding areas in Maine

Camden is honestly awesome year-round, especially in the summer for windjammer cruises around the harbor, and in the fall season for colorful foliage. But in winter, it’s home to one of the most exciting winter parks in Maine – the Camden Snow Bowl.

The Camden Snow Bowl offers ski trails, a snow tubing park, and even a very fun toboggan chute. In February, the famous toboggan chute is actually the location of the U.S. Toboggan Championships. But if you visit outside of the competition weekend, visitors are able to fly down the chute during their visit (which I highly recommend).

Camden is also often named one of Maine’s most beautiful towns, so during your day trip, you should also plan to visit the charming Main Street downtown, which is home to cute shops and restaurants.

29. Lincoln, NH

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding areas in the White Mountains and Vermont, Portsmouth

If you’re nearby Lincoln, NH in the winter season, you’ll want to consider a day trip to see the famous Ice Castles, which only puts on a few displays throughout the U.S. Technically located in South Woodstock (which is only a few minutes from Lincoln), the Ice Castles display is really something special to see with your own eyes.

Not only is there a giant castle carved out of ice (that changes each year!), there are also often special features like ice slides, sleigh rides, tunnels, tubing and more.

And because there are so many other winter activities in Lincoln like skiing and scenic gondola rides at Loon Mountain, ice skating at RiverWalk resort, sleigh rides at Franconia Notch stables, there are tons of ways to fill up your day trip itinerary.

→ Click here to read my guide on all the best things to do in Lincoln!

30. Jackson, NH

Jackson is another amazing winter destination for a day trip in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire. And since it’s only just an over an hour from Lincoln, you could easily combine the two for a winter wonderland day of fun.

One of the best things to do in the winter is actually drive from Lincoln (the previous suggestion!) to Jackson for a scenic winter drive. You have two options for this, both of which are beautiful: The Kancamagus Highway, and the drive through Crawford Notch State Park (along Route 302). Both will take about the same amount of time, so it’s really personal preference.

Once you arrive in Jackson, there are tons of downhill, cross-country ski and snowshoe trails to explore.

Another wonderful winter activity in Jackson is Nestlenook Farms, which has one of the most beautiful outdoor ice skating rinks, and they also offer sleigh rides along lantern-lit trails, as well as fire pits to warm up next to.

31. Portsmouth, NH

Best as a day trip from: White Mountains, Boston, Providence, Newport, Massachusetts North & South Shore , Portland and surrounding areas

Portsmouth is another destination in New England that feels like both a city and a quaint, charming town, and in the winter, it feels like the most perfect, cozy winter day trip adventure.

One of the top things to do in the city during the winter season is skate at the outdoor rink at Puddle Dock Pond, which is part of the Strawbery Banke Museum. The ice rink is backdropped by historic houses, and you can’t help but feel like you’re in a cute little New England village while you make your way around the ice.

After your skating adventure, you’ll want to walk through the beautiful historic side streets to Market Square, where you’ll find tons of beautiful stores and amazing restaurants for a cozy meal. One of the coolest places to eat in Portsmouth is the Book & Bar, which is, as you probably guessed, a bookstore, bar and cafe all in one.

Pro Tip : To stay warm while you explore, grab a hot chocolate from Elephantine Bakery before you begin your stroll around Market Square.

32. Boston, MA

Best as a day trip from: Providence, Portland, Cape Cod, Plymouth, Massachusetts North & South Shore, Newport

Boston is a wonderful city to visit year-round, but I actually think winter is one of the best seasons to explore because it’s far less crowded. Sure, the winter weather isn’t exactly idea, but if you get lucky enough to experience a fresh snowfall, it’s simply so beautiful to see the cobblestone streets covered in a dusting of snow.

Plus, because Boston has so many wonderful things to do indoors, as well as a few fun outdoor activities, it’s hard to beat for a city winter escape.

One of the best ways to get around Boston any time of the year is by trolley. This allows you to park your car for the day and have someone else take you to the best locations around the city. One option is the hop on/hop off pass, which is perfect for day-trippers. → Click here to book your Boston trolley passes!

And is it just me, or if your appetite bigger in the winter? I especially love food tours in the colder months for this reason, and Boston is an amazing destination to dive deep into the culinary world.

There are some awesome tours throughout the city to introduce you to the best foods in Boston, and you can click the link below to read my picks for the best ones . → Click here to check out my round-up of the best Boston food tours!

And for outdoor fun in the winter on your day trip, you’ll want to head to Frog Pond in Boston Common for ice skating , which is one of the best things to do in Massachusetts in the winter . This is especially fun at night when the rink is surrounded by twinkle lights, and you can see the city landscape light up as you make your way around the ice. You’ll also want to grab a cup of hot chocolate from L.A. Burdick to savor while you walk around to explore.

For indoor activities, you can visit the New England Aquarium, do some shopping at Copley Place, get tickets to a show, and make reservations for a fun dinner out before leaving (I’m especially fond of the Italian restaurants in the North End, but there are tons of places to choose from all over the city!).

33. Providence, RI

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Newport, Cape Cod, Plymouth

Providence is the capital of Rhode Island, and is a wonderful day trip to take in the winter season (and year-round, too!)! Not only will you get to enjoy everything the city has to offer in terms of great food, culture, theater, and historic sites, there are also some very fun ways to enjoy the winter season in Providence.

To enjoy the brisk winter weather, you’ll want to head to the BankNewport City Center Rink in downtown Providence. Here, you can enjoy ice skating and … ice bumper cars? Yes, you read that right! This rink is also home to this unique and fun winter activity that’s sure to make you feel like a kid again.

34. Killington, VT

Best as a day trip from: White Mountains, surrounding areas in Vermont

One of the best places in Vermont for skiing and outdoor winter fun is Killington Ski Resort, so this is the perfect day trip option for anyone looking to spend all day outdoors playing in the snow.

At Killington, you’ll find a large network of downhill ski trails, as well as a really fun snow tubing park, a roller coaster, snowmobile tours, snowshoe trails and even a spa (which is the perfect way to end your day trip after playing outside all day!).

35. Portland, ME

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Massachusetts North & South Shore, surrounding areas in Maine

Finally, let’s talk about Portland, one of the coolest destinations in Maine in the winter season. While Portland is also wonderful year-round, I especially enjoy it in the winter for the same reasons I like Boston in the winter – fewer crowds, and a bigger appetite to eat all the food 🙂

Portland is another incredible foodie destination in New England, and you’ll definitely want to consider a culinary tour during your day trip.

One of the best foodie tours in the city is this Old Port culinary walking tour, which takes you to some of the best spots in the most beautiful and historic part of the city! Click here to book your Old Port Culinary Tour in Portland!

Other posts on Portland to help you plan your trip:

• Best Things To Do In Portland In The Winter
• Best Breweries In Portland, Maine
• Best Day Trips From Portland, Maine

Best New England Day Trips In New England For Families

Pretty much every destination on this list makes for a wonderful day trip with the kids, but here are my picks for places that are especially perfect day trips in New England for families. I’ve included a few kid-friendly suggestions for each destination to plan the perfect itinerary.

→ Boston, MA : New England Aquarium, Boston Children’s Museum, Boston Museum of Science, Legoland Discovery Center, boat ride at the Public Gardens, The Lawn On D.

→ Mystic, CT: Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport Museum to climb aboard tall ships, B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill (fall season), sail boat tours, watch the Bascule Bridge in action.

→ Woodstock, VT : Billings Farm & Museum is one of the top attractions for families in Vermont, Silver Lakes State Park, ice cream at Woodstock Scoops, horse-drawn carriage rides.

→ Providence, RI: Roger Williams Park Zoo, WaterFire events, Providence Children’s Museum, ice skating (winter), Water Place Park.

→ Block Island : 1661 Farm and Gardens, The Ice Cream Place, free beaches, and kids will love the ferry ride to get there!

Best New England Day Trips For Couples

As I’m sure you can imagine, all of the destinations from this list are amazing day trips for couples, but here are my picks that are especially perfect for a romantic day together:

→ Kennebunkport : This is a romantic destination year-round, and is especially perfect at Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or for a summer day trip.

→ Nantucket : The island is one of the most picturesque places in the U.S., and the beaches are absolutely stunning and offer incredible sunsets for a romantic stroll.

→ Stowe : Perfect for a fall or winter day trip, Stowe is such a quintessential New England town that’s cozy and romantic.

→ Litchfield, CT : Spend your day admiring fall foliage, covered bridges, eating at cozy restaurants and walking around quaint villages while holding hands.

You may also enjoy reading:

• Best Boston Hotels Near The Aquarium
• Most Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
• Summer In New England: Best Places To Go & Things To Do!
• Lovely Things To Do In New England In The Spring
• Exciting Things To Do In New England In The Fall
• Awesome New England Winter Getaways (Even For Non-Skiers!)
• 60+ Things To Do In Vermont
• The Most Incredible New England Lighthouses To Visit
• Summer In Connecticut: The Best Things To Do!
• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Time To Visit New England
• My Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

That’s A Wrap On The Best New England Day Trips

And there you have it! My picks for the best day trips in New England. So, where are you planning to go first? Maybe hit the beaches in Provincetown? Wander the historic streets in Boston? Regardless of where you go, one thing’s for sure – it’s going to be a memorable day!

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The 16 best day trips from Portland

Feb 25, 2021 • 12 min read

Portland has an abundance of natural beauty just a short drive away, from high desert crags to lush coastal rainforests ©Danielle D. Hughson/Getty Images

Portland is blessed with a pretty prime geographic location – drive two hours in any direction and you might find yourself at the coast, on a snow-capped stratovolcano, in the heart of wine country, at a rock climbing crag, soaking in a hot spring or even closing in on other major cities like Seattle, Washington. If you're itching for a change of scenery, Portland has a wealth of day trip-worthy destinations in arm's reach. We narrowed it down to sixteen of the best, with a little something for everyone from foodies to families to outdoor enthusiasts to oenophiles.

Editor's note: during  COVID-19  there are restrictions on travel. Check the latest guidance before departure, and always follow local health advice.

1. Waterfall Alley, Columbia River Gorge

Steep, evergreen-covered cliffs are striated with so many high, lush waterfalls that it boggles the mind. Walk into this temperate rainforest and you’ll find golden-red foliage in fall, snow sprinkles in winter, wildflowers in spring and flourishing mosses year-round. The lower edge is dominated by the mighty, curving Columbia River. Adventures in Columbia River Gorge range from easy jaunts from a parking lot to full days exploring the wilds.  

How to get to the Gorge:  I-84 East runs the length of the Gorge, and you can easily exit to stop in numerous small towns and trail head parking lots along the way. Traffic can get backed up, though, so give yourself plenty of time. Alternately, you can reach the Gorge by public transit if you take the bus or light rail to the Gateway/NE 99th Avenue Transit Center and transfer to the Columbia Gorge Express. 

2. Willamette Valley Wine Country

The New World’s answer to Burgundy, the bucolic Willamette Valley  excels at producing complex pinot noirs. Small towns chock-full of gourmet restaurants and cute shops are separated by rolling hills covered in grapevines and flowers. Most wineries are family-owned and you’re more likely to be met by a happy dog than an attitude. Beyond wine, check out distilleries, cheese factories, bike trails and more.  

How to get to the Willamette Valley: Towns like Dundee at the north end of the Willamette Valley are only 40 minutes or so from downtown Portland, but the Willamette Valley extends for about a hundred miles to Eugene at the far southern end.

3. Sauvie Island

With pick-your-own fruit farms in summer, corn mazes and hay rides come autumn, and beaches, trails and waterways to explore year-round, Sauvie Island is an easy trip to pastoral bliss. Plus, it’s as fun for kids as it is for adults. As the largest island in Columbia River, any land not dedicated to farming is a protected wildlife area. Expect to see ospreys, herons, bald eagles and maybe even a beaver.   

How to get to Sauvie Island:   Sauvie Island is just 40min from Portland by car and can be reached by US-30 East, I-5 South, or US-26 East. There will be plenty of parking at the farms and other destinations, as well as at the public beaches – just be sure to get there early if it's a sunny summer day.

4. Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls is quite possibly the most stunning park in the state. The 7.2-mile, not-to-miss Trail of Ten Falls does what it says and more as it winds up a basalt canyon through thick forests. Walk the full loop to see all the waterfalls – and even walk behind a few – in their fern-draped, wildflowered splendor, or park at the Silver Falls Lodge from where it’s a short walk down to South Falls – here the trail leads underneath an unforgettable 177ft cascade curtain. 

How to get to Silver Falls State Park:   Silver Falls State Park is about 26 miles east of Salem on Hwy 214 and 53 miles south of Portland via OR-214 N and I-5 N. It should only take an hour to reach from downtown, depending on traffic.

5. Cannon Beach

The Oregon Coast holds some of the most beautifully grand but lesser-known beaches in the contiguous USA. Cannon Beach is the ideal, easy-to-reach introduction to the region, with miles of white sand, waterfalls tumbling to the beach and the hulking, 72m Haystack Rock which makes for a picture-perfect silhouette. In town, you’ll find art galleries, chic boutiques and incredible dining (hint: try the chowder).

How to get to Cannon Beach: Take US-26 East until it junctions with US 101 – a trip that should be only 1hr 30min by car.

6. Timberline Lodge

Stay, dine, hike, ski or gawk – this iconic Oregon lodge is a destination in itself or a must-stop if you’re exploring Mt Hood. The grand structure was built of local stone and timber to blend in with the surrounding forest and the six-sided central tower is meant to mimic the pyramid-like peak of its glorious mountain location. Timberline Lodge is a National Historic Landmark as well as a hotel, a fine restaurant, a pub, a ski resort and a trailhead for adventurous hiking. You may recognize the exterior from the 1980s horror film, The Shining .

How to get to Timberline Lodge:   Mount Hood is only an hour and a half from Portland by US-26 East. Alternately, you can take public transit to the Gresham Transit Center and transfer to the Sandy Local / Gresham Express to Sandy, Oregon. From there you transfer the Mount Hood Express before getting off in Timberline, but it will extend your journey to about three hours. 

7. Johnston Ridge Observatory, Mt St Helens

Gaze into the awesome crater of Mt St Helens from the state-of-the-art Johnston Ridge Observatory . Whether this is your destination or you’re preparing for a longer hike through the National Volcanic Monument, you’ll learn the science behind the 1500 atomic bomb-force eruption in 1980. Then take the 1-mile Eruption Trail walking loop for even more views, with explanations, of the volcanic destruction.   

How to get to Johnston Ridge Observatory:  Take I-5 N to WA-504 E/Mt St Helens Way NE in Castle Rock. The drive is about two hours long.

8. Smith Rock

Best known for its glorious rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park boasts rust-colored 800ft cliffs that tower over the pretty Crooked River. Nonclimbers have several miles of fine hiking trails, some of which involve a little simple rock scrambling. Nearby Terrebonne has a climbing store, along with some restaurants and grocery stores. The formations in the park are simply spectacular.

How to get to Smith Rock: It's a three hour drive to Smith Rock from Portland via US-26 East. Be sure to get there early – Smith Rock quickly fills up on a sunny day. There's camping right next to the park, or at Skull Hollow (no water; campsites $5), 8 miles east. The nearest motels are a few miles south in Redmond.

9. The Fruit Loop

Covering 35 miles along scenic fertile lands, the Hood River County Fruit Loop takes you by family fruit stands, U-pick orchards, lavender fields, alpaca farms and winery tasting rooms. There are blossoms in spring, berries in summer, and apples and pears in fall – with plenty of festivals and celebrations throughout the seasons (except for winter). It's a good way to sample the area's agricultural bounties while appreciating the local scenery too. For more information and a list of events, check www.hoodriverfruitloop.com.

How to get to the Fruit Loop: State   Highway 35 runs from Government Camp on the slopes of Mount Hood and the city of Hood River in the Columbia River Gorge. It's along this stretch that most of the farms and other destinations on the Fruit Loop are located. You can take either US-26 East or I-84 to reach one end of the Loop or the other, depending on whether you'd like to drive it clockwise or counterclockwise. 

10. Eugene, Oregon

Eugene offers a great art scene, exceptionally fine restaurants , buzzy breweries , boisterous festivals , miles of riverside paths and several lovely parks . Its location at the confluence of the Willamette and McKenzie Rivers, just west of the Cascades, means there's plenty of outdoor recreation on offer – especially around the McKenzie River region, the Three Sisters Wilderness and Willamette Pass. Not only that, Eugene's at the southern end of the Willamette Valley, which boasts several world-class wineries.

How to get to Eugene: It's about a two hour drive on I-5 South from Portland to Eugene. If you don't mind the potential for delays, or want to extend your daytrip into a weekend away, you can also take Amtrak's Coast Starlight or Cascades lines from Portland's Union Station to Eugene, a journey of about 2 hours and 30 minutes if you don't have to wait on a freight train to pass.

11. Tillamook

Best known for its huge cheese industry, Tillamook is a fun destination for a day trip if you're aiming to down some dairy. Cheese production began in Tillamook in the 1890s, when an English cheesemaker brought his cheddar-making techniques to the fledgling dairies along Tillamook Bay. Nearly a million people stop here annually to visit the famed  Tillamook Creamery , which produces 171,000 pounds of cheese every day. South of Tillamook, US 101 loses the beaches and headlands and follows the Nestucca River through pastureland and logged-off mountains. The slower but prettier  Three Capes Scenic Drive  begins in Tillamook and follows the coast.

How to get to Tillamook:  US-26 West and OR-6 West will get you to Tillamook in under an hour and a half. Alternately, you can take the 5 bus from Union and disembark at the Tillamook Transit Center, but that will add a half hour or so to the trip.

12. Bend, Oregon

Not all of Bend is as pretty as nearby Smith Rock – Hight 97 (3rd St) is a long commercial strip of cheap motels, fast-food restaurants and run-of-the-mill services. But something has to support Bend's fast-growing population, which has skyrocketed with outdoor-lovers over the past decade or so. You can ski fine powder in the morning, paddle a kayak in the afternoon and grab a beer  in the evening at a crop of local watering holes . Or would you rather go mountain biking, hiking, mountaineering, stand-up paddle boarding, fly-fishing or rock climbing? All of those are possible at the nearby  Three Sisters Wilderness ,  Lava River Cave  and  Newberry National Volcanic Monument . You can even surf a river wave in the center of town. It's the perfect getaway from cloudy Portland, too, with nearly 300 days of sunshine each year.

How to get to Bend: US-26 East will get you to Bend from Portland in just over three hours, though traffic can sometimes tangle up where you pass through Smith Rock State Park. You can also take I-5 South to Salem and take OR-22 East over the Cascades to Bend – a drive of about three and a half hours.

13. Bagby Hotsprings

A 90-mile drive east of Salem is this rustic, clothing-optional hot spring with various wooden tubs in semi-private bathhouses. Bagby Hot Springs  is accessible via a lovely 1.5-mile hiking trail through lush forest. Be prepared to wait your turn on weekends. The admission fee is collected by an attendant near the trailhead.

How to get to Bagby Hotsprings: There are a couple different routes you can take south from Portland that all converge around Shady Dell. Whichever you take, you'll ultimately end up driving 11 miles on forest service road NF-7010 until you reach the trailhead parking lot. From there it's a 30 minute hike to the springs.

14. Trillium Lake

If there's one thing Portlanders love, it's heading to Trillium Lake for the day. This popular spot offers stunning vistas of Mt. Hood reflected in the lake's shimmering waters, a nice campground, and boardwalk hikes surrounded by wildflowers in season. During the spring and summer, there are opportunities for boating, swimming and fishing, too. The 63-acre lake sits at an elevation of 3,600 feet, though, so by the middle of autumn the access road is closed by the park service, and instead transforms into a cross country ski and snowshoe trail for the winter. A State of Oregon Sno-Park permit is required November 1 through April 30.

How to get to Trillium Lake: US-26 East will get you to Trillium Lake in about an hour and a half. Once you reach Government Camp, you'll use forest service road NF-2656 to reach the campground.

15. Astoria

Named after America's first millionaire, John Jacob Astor, Astoria sits at the 5-mile-wide mouth of the Columbia River and was the first US settlement west of the Mississippi. The city has a long seafaring history and has seen its old harbor, once home to poor artists and writers, attract fancy hotels and restaurants in recent years. Inland are many historical houses, including lovingly restored Victorians – a few converted into romantic B&Bs. With a number of quirky festivals like the Fisher Poets Gathering  and the  Festival of the Dark Arts  beer showcase, Astoria has plenty to keep day trippers coming back throughout the year. 

How to get to Astoria: It takes just under two hours to get to Astoria from Portland on   US-26 West. Alternately, you can take public transit to Union and transfer to the CC bus to Astoria before getting off at the East Columbia River Highway stop. It takes just under three hours by bus from Portland.

16. Seattle

Just three hours away from Portland, its bigger, sleeker sibling sits on Puget Sound. Seattle 's current reputation as the town that spawned Amazon and Starbucks won't give you the full picture of the city's oddball cultural heritage. Crisscross its urban grid and you’ll find all kinds of apparitions: a rocket sticking out of a building; a museum built to resemble a smashed-up electric guitar; glass orbs in wooden canoes; a statue of Lenin; a mural made of used chewing gum; fish-tossing market traders; and a museum dedicated to antique pinball machines (that you can still play). Need help acclimating? The city's still-booming legal weed market will help you embrace your own weird side.

How to get to Seattle: It's under three hours to Seattle from Portland on I-5 North. You can also take the Bolt bus, which departs regularly from the Park Blocks in downtown Portland. Another option is to take the Amtrak Coast Starlight or Cascade train from Portland's Union Station in to Seattle. The later two options will take anywhere from three and a half to four and a half hours, not counting possible delays.

You might also like:

Celebrate spring with lush backpacking trips near Portland, Oregon The 11 best beaches in Oregon The best tasting rooms in Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine country

This article was first published Sep 2, 2020 and updated Feb 25, 2021.

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

30 Best Places to Visit in July in the USA

Published: July 5, 2022

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Angela Magsajo

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips
• United States

The arrival of July means summer is in full swing! Plenty of families, couples, and even solo travelers are in search of the best places to visit in July in the USA for their vacations. Luckily, the most beautiful states in the US is home to beautiful beaches and stunning national parks perfect for exploration and other outdoor activities. Additionally, many vibrant cities are worth visiting during a road trip. Choosing the best places to travel in July can be difficult due to the plethora of options.

If you’re brainstorming for couple and family vacation ideas , we’ve got a list of all the best summer vacation destinations in the U.S. From white-sand beaches and hiking trails to gorgeous lakes and lively cities, here are the best places to visit in July in the USA ! 

Best Places to Visit in July for Couples

1. san juan islands, washington.

Photo by Bjorn Bakstad on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 51.8°F and high of 71°F; precipitation of 0.7″

Reasons to Visit July: Middle of whale-watching season, a number of local farmers’ markets are open, and seafood season.

A romantic summer trip to the San Juan Islands in Washington State is on the bucket list of many couples. Made up of over 170 islands and reefs, there is an abundance of things to do all year round. A visit during July, however, means pleasant weather with average temperatures of 70°F. The balmy conditions mean you can comfortably explore the outdoors. Go on wildlife tours, kayak through the islands, climb mountains, hike the thousands of acres of land, or simply relax by the waters. There’s a higher chance of spotting whales in the surrounding waters too. After a day of whale-watching and other outdoor activities , hit one of the local restaurants to indulge in freshly caught seafood. Don’t forget to stop by the local farmers’ markets on Lopez, Orcas and San Juan Islands where local merchants sell hundreds of souvenirs for you to take home.

2. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Photo By Jin on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 64°F and high of 77°F; precipitation of 2.6″

Reasons to Visit July: Middle of whale-watching season. Ideal time for water activities.

Cape Cod is a hook-shaped peninsula situated in southeastern Massachusetts. It’s renowned for its quaint coastal towns, sandy beaches, and overall laid-back atmosphere. While there are a great deal of activities to do here, the main highlight for many visitors includes whale-watching , which is at its peak around June through September. Thus, you’re just in time to catch these majestic creatures when you visit in July. Moreover, it’s among the top places to go for the 4th of July if you’re looking to express your love of the stars and stripes. From parades and concerts to firework displays, you’ll find patriotic festivities all throughout the cape.

3. Bar Harbor, Maine 

Photo by Adam Nemeroff on Unsplash

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 57°F and high of 73°F; precipitation of 2.8″ Reasons to Visit July: Offers a more relaxing ambience than other popular tourist spots. Annual seafood festival.

Looking for the best places to visit in July in the USA where you can kick back and unwind? Bar Harbor is another seaside town with scenic surroundings and a relaxing ambience. It features rocky beaches with beautiful coastlines, picturesque lakes, and rugged valleys and cliffs. Besides the lush landscapes, it’s likewise renowned for its historic charm and vibrant art scene. Visiting during the 4th of July? Don’t forget to catch the town’s annual parade, concert series, and fireworks display over Frenchman Bay! There’s even a seafood festival wherein you can sample Maine’s famed lobster and crab rolls. 

4. Jekyll Island, Georgia

Photo by Boris on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 77°F and high of 87.8°F; precipitation of 6.8”

Reasons to Visit July: Middle of seafood season.

Jekyll Island is another one of the best places to visit in July for couples. Located off the coast of Georgia, it’s a popular tourist destination thanks to its abundance of activities and adventures while still providing a laid-back atmosphere. Explore the town’s 10 miles worth of shoreline and sandbars. Take a step back in time as you stroll through the town’s historic district. Visit museums and galleries to immerse yourself in the local culture and history.

Looking for a more scenic way to get a glimpse of Jekyll Island’s beauty? Rent a bike and follow the 22 miles of picturesque paths and trails with majestic oak trees and sand dunes. What’s more, no trip to the Georgia coast is complete without indulging in fresh-caught seafood dishes. The best restaurants in Jekyll Island range from casual waterfront spots to fine dining establishments, all of which offer delicious Southern comfort food.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Photo by Paul VanDerWerf on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 49°F and high of 77°F; precipitation of 1.2″

Reasons to Visit July: Popular time for wilderness camping and horseback riding.

Pristine lakes, striking mountain ranges, lush greenery, and a wide variety of wildlife greet you at Rocky Mountain National Park. Spread across over 265,000 acres, this national park in Colorado is a paradise to outdoor enthusiasts. However, due to its expansive size, it experiences various climates throughout the year. You may even see snow in early July when you hike uphill towards areas with higher elevations.

Undoubtedly, the park is among the best places to visit in July in the USA for nature lovers. Wildflowers are in full bloom during this month and lots of wildlife are roaming around the valleys. There are over 300 miles of hiking trails that lead to crystal clear alpine lakes and waterfalls. Additionally, wilderness camping and horseback riding are popular activities during the month, as well.

6. Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Photo by Chad Hunter on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 47°F and high of 81°F; precipitation of 0.9″

Reasons to Visit July: Balmy daytime temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and events, including hot-air balloon trips and the local rodeo.

While you’re in Colorado, make sure to include Steamboat Springs in your list of places to visit in July. On account of its world-class ski resorts and hot springs, the city is one of the popular winter getaway destinations in the Centennial State. However, it’s equally worth visiting during the summer months. July is the perfect time for outdoor fun. Start the day with a morning yoga session on top of a mountain, go horseback riding through the area’s aspen trees, and soar above the Steamboat Valley in a hot-air balloon. Camping is another popular activity. People flock to the campgrounds in Steamboat Springs for a more intimate experience with the great outdoors. What’s more, the annual Steamboat Springs rodeo competition falls around this month, so aspiring cowboys and cowgirls will certainly have a good time!

7. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Photo by Thomas Hoang on Pixabay

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 64°F and high of 84°F; precipitation of 3.6″

Reasons to Visit July: Dollywood’s extended park hours and nightly firework shows.

Nestled in the mountains of Tennessee, Pigeon Forge is a quaint town with heaps of Southern charm. July is the warmest month in the town, though, it’s also the month with the most rainfall. The sporadic weather may deter some people from visiting, but the enjoyable atmosphere still makes it among the best places to visit in July in the USA. It draws in flocks of tourists, particularly couples, looking for a romantic getaway.

Some of the romantic things to do in Pigeon Forge during July include touring local wineries, strolling along Little Pigeon River, or a leisurely float downstream. Take in the amazing views of the Smokies in your car during a scenic drive or even on horseback. Moreover, a trip to Pigeon Forge wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Dollywood, which has extended park hours and nightly firework displays during July.

Best Places to Visit in July With Family

8. las vegas, nevada.

Photo by Wayne S. Grazio on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 80°F and high of 104°F; precipitation of 0.4″

Reasons to Visit July: Plenty of family-friendly pool parties and other events.

Despite its moniker, Las Vegas is still one of the best places to visit in July in the USA for vacationing families. Sin City isn’t just littered with casinos and nightclubs. You’ll find a myriad of kid-friendly attractions here, as well! This includes a myriad of entertainment arenas, museums, wildlife parks, and so much more. Beat the summer heat at one of the kid-friendly pool clubs or water parks. Take in the metropolis’ beauty and the nearby desert from the top of the city’s 550-foot tall Ferris wheel.

Looking for family-friendly indoor attractions? Head over to one of the city’s exciting and interactive museums. Moreover, little ones will undoubtedly enjoy touring chocolate shops and factories. It’s important to note, though, that with average temperatures ranging from the upper 70s°F to the upper 90s°F, July is the warmest month in Las Vegas. It’s also not uncommon for temperatures to soar to triple digits during this month. That said, be sure to appropriately plan what to wear in Las Vegas to keep you and your family comfortable during your stay. 

9. Yosemite National Park, California

Photo by Sam Goodgame on Unsplash

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 39°F and high of 89°F; precipitation of 0.3″

Reasons to Visit July: Bus tours are available. 

July is one of the best times to visit Yosemite National Park. Depending on elevations, average temperatures range from lows of 35°F to highs of 87°F. The warm weather draws in a number of families traveling with kids who want to experience the natural wonders of Yosemite. Featuring sparkling lakes and waterfalls, soaring granite cliffs, lush meadows, and giant sequoias, the park is a paradise for nature lovers. And one of the best ways to explore the park’s picturesque beauty is by following its 750 miles of trails. You can do so on foot, on a bike, on horseback, or even on a bus tour. In particular, the Tuolumne Meadows bus tour is popular around July when wildflower fields are in bloom. Keep in mind that some trails at higher altitudes can remain snowy even in early July. Be sure to check the trail conditions with park rangers. 

10. Sequoia National Park, California 

Photo by Stephen on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 46°°F and high of 76°F; precipitation of 0.61″ Reasons to Visit July: Fewer crowds than in other national parks in California. Perfect time for bird watching and wildlife spotting.

Another one of the national parks in California to include in your list of best places to visit in July in the USA is Sequoia. Dubbed the Land of Giants, Sequoia National Park is home to enormous and often ancient trees that provide an abundance of shade from the sun. July is a popular month to visit the park, but it sees relatively fewer crowds than the popular Yosemite.

The diverse landscapes mean that climate and weather differ depending on elevation. Lower elevation areas such as the Foothills typically experience hot dry days. Meanwhile, higher altitudes have temperate days with cool evenings. The balmy temperatures are ideal for going on strolls through the famous Sequoia groves. July is likewise a great time to explore the park’s mountain ranges and other hiking trails , which are littered with blooming wildflowers and roaming wildlife. 

11. Zion National Park, Utah

Photo by G. Lamar on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 100.9°F and high of 100.9°F; precipitation of 1.2” Reasons to Visit July: All hiking trails, sights, and facilities are open and accessible. Great time for hiking the Narrows.

Despite the often sweltering temperatures that can reach triple digits, Zion National Park is still a popular vacation spot for families. After all, all of its numerous hiking trails, sights, and facilities are all open and accessible during July. This includes the shuttle services, the Zion Human History Museum, and the Zion Nature Center. Additionally, July is the best time to visit Zion National Park if you want to see the valley’s flora still in full bloom. For more refreshing activities, head over to the Narrows or the Virgin River.

12. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Photo by Andrew Parlette on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 44°F and high of 79°F; precipitation of 0.8″ Reasons to Visit July: Warm sunny days and cool nights that are great for outdoor activities.

One of the state’s jewels, Grand Teton National Park, is among the Wyoming national parks you should definitely visit. Boasting staggering mountain ranges, alpine lakes, historic sites, and lush meadows, it’s one of the best places to visit in July in the USA for breathtaking landscapes and sights. The month brings warm days and cool nights, with few chances of rain showers in the afternoon, so bring rain gear with you.

If you want to cool off during a warm day, make your way to one of the park’s lakes. String and Leigh Lakes are popular options for families who want to enjoy a scenic picnic by the waters, swim, boat, or simply relax. Looking for more adventurous water activities? Head over to one of the rivers and streams and go white-water rafting! Besides this, many visitors try their luck at conquering impressive mountain scenery by climbing and mountaineering. It’s important to note that depending on the location and elevation, some mountains may still have snowmelt around mid-July.

13. Denali National Park, Alaska

Photo by David Mark on Pixabay

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 39.2°Fand high of 57.2°F; precipitation of 3.00″ Reasons to Visit July: Mild to cool temperatures, a great time for wildlife spotting, and bus tours are available. 

On the hunt for places to visit in July that are not hot? You certainly can’t go wrong with Denali National Park in Alaska. With average highs of mid-60s°F and lows of mid-40s°F, the weather is mild and temperate. Featuring impressive glaciers, rugged mountain peaks, and tundra and spruce forests, it is among the most stunning national parks in Alaska . 

It’s where you’ll find Mount Denali — the tallest mountain peak in North America . You’ll likewise find different species of animals roaming around the nearly six million-acre land. This includes wolves, caribou, moose, sheep, and grizzly and black bears, all of which are often seen during the summer months. One of the best ways to explore the beauty of the park is through its hiking trails . But a trip to the park around July allows you to use your own private vehicle to drive along a portion of the Denali Park Road. Furthermore, bus tours are available during this month.

Best Places to Visit in July in the USA on a Budget

14. salt lake city, utah.

Photo by lassensurf on Pixabay

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 61.3°F and high of 84.7°F; precipitation of 0.3″

Reasons to Visit July: Pioneer Day celebrations.

There’s a myriad of things to do in Salt Lake City on a budget! Utah’s capital city offers visitors historic sights, nature trails, and religious attractions. Admire the 222-foot beauty of Salt Lake Temple, learn about the history of Temple Square, and get a better understanding of the state’s history and politics at the Utah State Capitol Building. Enjoy a picnic and stroll through Liberty Park. While you’re there, don’t miss out on the chance of meeting different bird species, not just from North America but from other parts of the world at the Tracy Aviary and Botanical Garden. Visit on the 24th of the month to witness the city’s celebration of Pioneer Day. Floats, bands, and dancers take to the streets to commemorate the state’s early residents, with the festivities culminating in the downtown area. There you’ll find live music, dancing, games, and food.

15. Glacier National Park, Montana

Photo Diana Robinson on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 50°F and high of 80°F; precipitation of 1.39” Reasons to Visit July: Great time for scenic drives along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Ideal water temperatures for water-based activities.

A trip to Montana’s Glacier National Park during July means warm sunny days and cool nights. Average temperatures fluctuate between highs of mid-80s°F to lows of upper 40s°F. However, temperatures can drop at higher elevations, such as at Logan Pass, with slight chances of snow occurring any time of the year. Nevertheless, since all hiking trails, business, and services are fully operational, you’ll never run out of things to do in Glacier National Park ! This includes going for a scenic drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road, camping in the wilderness, and stargazing during the twilight hours. Furthermore, the park has some of the best lakes in the US, perfect for water-based activities such as fishing, white water canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. Want to learn more about the park? Free ranger-led activity programs are available during the month.

16. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Photo by Zack Frank on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 41.5°F and high of 71.6°F; precipitation of 1.6″

Reasons to Visit July: All trailheads, backcountry camping sites, and facilities are fully open. Wildflowers are in full bloom.

Weather-wise, July is one of the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park because of its daytime temperatures around 70°F. It’s a popular time to visit, with plenty of people flocking to iconic attractions such as Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic. All trails, roads, bike routes, lodges, and visitor centers are fully open. River levels drop around this time, opening up many backcountry camping sites. Moreover, wildflowers at higher altitudes are in full bloom, which further makes the landscape even more stunning than it usually is. In addition, July is part of the rutting season of the park’s male bison. Head over to the Lamar and Hayden valleys to hear these majestic creatures.

17. Grand Canyon, Arizona

Photo screaming_monkey on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 50°F and high of 84°F; precipitation of 0.8″

Reasons to Visit July: Mule trips are available plus longer daylight hours.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site in the USA is a must-visit for many. People travel across the globe to witness the spectacular landscape of the Grand Canyon. Weather conditions and temperatures in the park vary according to elevation. Generally, though, July sees average highs soaring to triple digits in the daytime. After the sun goes down, nighttime temperatures fluctuate between 40s°F and 70s°F. 

It can get crowded due to the summer holidays, particularly at the South Rim, but the North and West Rims have less number of tourists around this time. Hiking and backpacking are obvious ways to explore the trails of the North Rim. However, mule trips are extremely popular with visitors, as well. Meanwhile, at the West Rim, you can go on a whitewater rafting trip or walk the glass walkway situated 4,000 feet above sea level. Furthermore, the longer daylight hours of July provide more time for exploration of this natural wonder! 

18. York, Pennsylvania

Photo by Smallbones on Wikimedia Commons

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 66°F and high of 84°F; precipitation of 3.3″

Reasons to Visit July: Various farmers’ markets across the city are open.

Nestled between the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, York City is one of the small towns you should add to your itinerary of the best places to visit in July in the USA . Dubbed as the White Rose City after the symbol of the House of York of England, the metropolis is an architectural museum! It’s home to a collection of well-preserved buildings dating back to the 18th century. Strolling through the streets transports you back in time. In fact, York, PA has four national historic districts. The town isn’t just a haven for history lovers. There are a lot of other attractions that will satisfy all types of visitors. Families with kids can all meet cows and other animals at the city’s farms and nature centers. There’s various farmers’ markets and shopping centers if you want to purchase souvenirs, as well.

19. Canyon Ferry Lake, Montana

Photo from the Visit Montana official Website

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 52°F and high of 83°F; precipitation of 1.47″

Reasons to Visit July: Perfect time for fishing and camping.

Grab your best fishing rods and camping tents, and set off to Canyon Ferry Lake in Montana. Located between the slopes of the Big Belt Mountains, it provides locals and tourists alike with plenty of outdoor recreational activities. On top of the list is fishing, with the lake considered as one of the best angling destinations in the state. During warm summer months, many visit the lake hoping to reel in their prized catch. The waters are swimming with trout, sunfish, codfish and sculpin. It’s likewise a popular boating destination with three marinas in the area. On the other hand, if you’re looking for some land-based fun, there are several parks perfect for biking, hiking, and picnicking. Stay the night at one of the Canyon Ferry campgrounds to complete the experience. Expect moderately warm temperatures that range from lows of 50s°F to highs of 80s°F.

Best Places to Visit in July in the East Coast

20. acadia national park, maine.

Photo by demerzel21 on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 58°F and high of 75°F; precipitation of 2.8″ Reasons to Visit July: Ideal weather conditions for scenic drives up the mountains.

Acadia National Park is another one of the best places to visit in July in the USA , on account of its comfortable weather conditions. Daytime temperatures vary between lows of mid-40s°F. and highs of 90s°F. Meanwhile, water temperatures are much cooler, ranging from 50s°F to 70s°F. What’s more, all picnic areas, park roads, beaches, and campgrounds are fully open around July.

The Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast spans 47,000 acres and features wetlands, rocky beaches, forests, meadows, and granite peaks. Here, you’ll also find Cadillac mountain — the highest point on the East Coast . One of the best things to do in Acadia is take a scenic drive up to the summit of Cadillac, which offers picturesque views of the eastern seaboard. Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots, in order to comfortably explore the 158 miles of hiking trails.

21. Washington, D.C.

Photo by MelissaMN on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 71°F and high of 88°F; precipitation of 3.1”

Reasons to Visit July: Extravagant 4th of July celebrations. 

There’s no doubt that the nation’s capital is among the top places to go for the 4th of July. Washington, D.C. is filled with celebrations from concerts, street festivals, and parades. Of course, the highlight of the celebration is the firework displays that light up the night sky against the skyline of the district’s iconic monuments and memorials. Not visiting on the 4th? There are still countless things to do the rest of the month! Enjoy free live music and theater performances at some of the most popular venues.

Note that July can get hot and humid with temperatures reaching the upper 80s°F with some occasional rainfall. While not the best conditions for outdoor activities , there are plenty of indoor attractions you can check out, including numerous museums and theaters. And if you truly want to beat the heat, make a splash at one of D.C.’s lakes, waterfront, and splash zones. 

22. Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina and Tennessee

Photo by Jim Liestman on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 65°F and high of 84°F; precipitation of 3.6″

Reasons to Visit July: Ideal weather for outdoor activities; wildflowers and shrubs in bloom. 

July is a popular month to visit the Great Smoky Mountains and for good reason. Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Smokies during this month are ideal for outdoor adventure, such as hiking up the mountains, chasing waterfalls, and wildlife spotting. Furthermore, all picnic areas and pavilions are open during this time. Admittedly, it can get rather hot and humid during the month, with temperatures soaring into the 90s°F at lower elevations. However, the canopy of the dense woodland forest provides shade to cool off visitors. Alternatively, retreat to the mountain’s cascading falls and gentle streams. Another option is to head up to higher altitudes, such as Mount LeConte, where the weather is much more pleasant. While on your journey, keep an eye out for the assortment of wildflowers and shrubs in bloom in mid-elevation areas.

23. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Photo by Alistair Nicol on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 75.5°F and high of 82.7°F; precipitation of 3.8″

Reasons to Visit July: Fewer crowds compared to other destinations.

Generally considered as one of the states with the best weather in the US, North Carolina experiences sunny skies with few bad weather days in July. And one of the top destinations in the state to enjoy the pleasant weather is at Outer Banks . Far away from crowded cities, gaudy nightlife, high-rise buildings that spoil the ocean views, and tourist traps, a summer getaway on this string of barrier islands means seaside tranquility.

Over a hundred miles of shoreline come alive with people lounging by the beach, splashing around the waves, and reeling in their catch of the day. Water sports, such as kayaking, kite surfing, surfing, and paddle boarding are just some of the popular water activities. Looking for things to do away from the shores? Immerse yourself in local culture when you step into local galleries. Delve into history when you visit the city’s museums and other historical sights. For a more unique perspective of the coastline, climb up one of the centuries-old lighthouses or consider hopping aboard a helicopter for a bird’s-eye view of the islands.

24. South Beach, Florida

Photo by Mike McBey on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 74°F and high of 89°F; precipitation of 5.1″

Reasons to Visit July: Fourth of July street parades, firework displays, and music festivals.

A good time is always guaranteed at South Beach, a lively Miami Beach neighborhood, thanks to the number of energetic nightclubs, with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop. The area hosts a myriad of festivities, including a good old-fashioned street parade, then firework displays that light up the sky. Various music festivals are scheduled around this time, as well, ranging from rap and hip-hop to classical music.

In terms of weather conditions, South Beach experiences average temperatures that fluctuate between lows in the upper 70s°F and highs in the upper 80s°F. Expect light rain showers all throughout the month, though they don’t last very long. Despite the hot, wet, and humid weather, South Beach is still considered among the best places to visit in July in the USA, especially if warm weather, perfect waves, beautiful beaches , and non-stop nightlife are what you’re after.

25. New York City, New York

Photo by  ungvar on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 71°F and high of 84°F; precipitation of 3.5″

Reasons to Visit July: Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular

For many, the Big Apple is among the top cities to visit in the U.S. The city that never sleeps is truly rich with diverse culture, interesting history, and countless entertainment venues. July is a great time to witness the city come alive. And the warm weather is ideal for strolling through the paths of Central Park or biking along the Hudson River. However, undoubtedly the annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular is the highlight of the month in NYC. The well-known department store hosts an extravagant pyrotechnic display, accompanied by performances and appearances from major artists and celebrities.

Best Places to Visit in July in the West Coast

26. san francisco, california.

Photo by Thomas Hawk on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 56°F and high of 70°F; precipitation of 0.0″

Reasons to Visit July: Several race marathons, the Fillmore Jazz Festival, and Bastille Day Festival.

For West Coast destinations this July, you certainly can’t go wrong with San Francisco . The city is famous for its steep rolling hills and being home to iconic landmarks and structures. This includes the likes of the Golden Gate Bridge , the Painted Ladies, and one of three surviving Japantowns in the country. The City by the Bay is packed with events and fun activities during this month. The main highlight, of course, is the annual 4th of July celebration, with its parade, street fairs, and firework display over the San Francisco skyline. Other notable events in the city in July include several marathons and music festivals. Want to immerse yourself in French culture without leaving the Bay Area? Schedule your trip around the third week of the month for the Bastille Day Festival.

27. San Diego, California 

Photo by Gage Skidmore on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 63°F and high of 71°F; precipitation of 0.1″

Reasons to Visit July: San Diego County Fair, San Diego Comic Con, and the beginning of the Del Mar Racing Season.

San Diego is another popular destination in California that sees flocks of tourists during the month of July. Besides the plethora of sunning and surfing opportunities, America’s Finest City likewise offers an array of festivals and sporting events. Head over to the San Diego County Fair for some live entertainment, delicious food, and fun rides and games. Equestrian fans shouldn’t miss out on the start of the Del Mar Racing Season around mid-July. Beach sports enthusiasts will surely be thrilled to witness the annual Over-the-Line tournament in the city. Meanwhile, comic book fans definitely won’t pass up the opportunity to be part of the biggest pop culture convention in San Diego!

28. Los Angeles, California 

Photo by Jake Blucker on Unsplash

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 65°F and high of 83°F; precipitation of 0.0″

Reasons to Visit July: Several film and music festivals, pop culture conventions, and several sporting events.  

Countless people consider Los Angeles as one of the best places for vacation in summer. After all, it’s hard to beat its incredible natural landscape, gorgeous beaches, lively boardwalks, piers, amusement parks, and other iconic attractions. From a myriad of celebrations to sporting events, there’s truly no shortage of things to do in Los Angeles during July. Chief among them are the Independence Day concerts held across the city, though the most prominent ones are held at the Hollywood Bowl and Rose Bowl Stadium.

For sports fans, July is a great month to support the city’s baseball, soccer, or women’s basketball teams. Meanwhile, motorheads won’t want to miss out on the Port of Los Angeles’ Cars & Stripes Forever and its exhibit of over a 100 pre-1975 classic cars and motorcycles. Film enthusiasts will also be glad to know that July has several film festivals, including the Outfest LA Film Festival. What’s more, the city’s annual Anime Expo will surely thrill avid Japanese pop culture fans. 

29. Olympic National Park, Washington

Photo by BDFri2012 on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 49.8°F and high of 73.8°F; precipitation of 0.8″

Reasons to Visit July: All trailheads and ranger-led programs are accessible and available. Small chances of rainfall. 

Temperate weather greets you when you visit Olympic National Park in July. It’s the perfect time to explore the national park’s stunning landscapes. Thus, it’s undeniably among the best places to visit in July in the USA. Spread out across nearly a million acres, the vast size of the park encompasses three distinct ecosystems. It boasts a beautiful coastline, a lush rainforest, and alpine highlands. The 70 miles rugged shoreline features sandy beaches and rocky shores, while the temperate forest has towering trees, wildflower meadows and tranquil lakeshores. The highlands, on the other hand, features breathtaking glacier-capped mountains.

Visiting in July means all activities such as climbing, hiking, backpacking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and night sky stargazing are all possible. Ranger-led programs are available during this month too. In terms of weather conditions, temperatures are moderately warm, rarely exceeding 80°F. What’s more, July is the month with the least chances of rainfall but fog can sometimes persist in higher elevation areas.

30. Oregon Coast

Photo by Amy Wilkins on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 55°F and high of 85°F; precipitation of 1.1″

Reasons to Visit July: Sunny days with 11 hours of sunshine.

Planning on a road trip for your next vacation? Well, how about a trip through the Oregon Coast? Stretching over 300 miles, the region is divided into three: the North Coast, Central Coast, and South Coast. Among them, it’s the North Coast that attracts the most visitors with its sandstone cliffs, ocean caves, and iconic landmarks, like shipwrecks and the Haystack Rock.

Meanwhile, the Central Coast is a well-known fishing destination with lots of overlooks. Further down, the South Coast offers secluded black-sand beaches, jagged cliffs, and beachside forests with beautiful hiking paths. Scattered across the coast, you’ll find both popular and secluded beaches, starting from Cannon Beach in the north all the way down to Oregon Dunes. The best part? All of them are free and open to the public. As such, this picturesque shoreline is a popular cheap weekend getaway spot for both Oregon locals and tourists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where in the us has the best weather in july.

Photo by prayitnophotography on Flickr

Cities such as San Francisco and San Diego experience cooler weather in July compared to other areas on the West Coast . Meanwhile, Washington State and coastal Maine offer comfortable summer temperatures on the East Coast . Although, if you want to escape the warm July weather, head up to Alaska, which is one of the coolest states in the country.

What Is the Best Place to Vacation in July?

Photo by Geoff Livingston on Flickr

City goers can’t go wrong with the lively ambience of places like Las Vegas , New York City, Miami, Washington, D.C., or Los Angeles . On the other hand, nature lovers will find paradise in the country’s national parks and their stunning vistas. For the best of both worlds, there are a number of small towns that provide relaxing atmospheres with still plenty of options for fun and excitement. This includes the likes of Bar Harbor, San Juan Islands, and Cape Cod

What Is the Most Popular Summer Vacation Spot in the US ?

Photo by Rudi Nockewel on Pixabay

Many consider New York City, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Las Vegas as some of the best places to visit in summer in the USA . Meanwhile, popular laid-back beach destinations can be found along the Oregon Coast , in San Juan Islands , and Outer Banks .

Which State Is the Best to Visit in July?

Photo by Tommaso Teloni on Unsplash

California is the best state to visit in July if you’re looking to soak up some sun and ride some waves. And since it’s home to nine national parks, it’s also a great destination if you’re planning on adventurous outdoor activities. For those looking for beautiful coastal scenery, Maine is certainly among the best places to visit in July in the USA. 

Visiting the Best Vacation Spots in the USA in July

Create long-lasting memories with your friends, family, and loved ones at these best vacation spots in the US in the month of July! From the best places to visit in July with family to romantic getaway destinations, the USA has it all. Whether you’re looking for a beach vacation, a wilderness excursion, an energetic metropolitan vibe, or tranquility, there are endless possibilities for your next summer vacation!

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Find your ideal day trip break today

It can be difficult to decide on the best way to spend your summer. Whether you’re planning the perfect family day out, catching up with friends or just looking for your own little adventure, we can help make it something special.

That's why we’ve put together a guide to some of our favourite days out across the country, easily reached on our coaches at an affordable price.

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Thinking about a trip to Chester Zoo with National Express? Now you can hear all about it at the popular LeedsDad.com blog. How did this brave dad fare on the coach with two small children? You'll have to read on to find out...

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Adventure days

Need a break from the everyday?

See our favourite adventure days out…

Motor Safari, Cheshire

Ever fancied hurtling through stunning countryside on a quad bike or 4x4? Now's your chance!

Here's where you can learn to ride, before relaxing in accommodation ranging from bushcraft-style lodges to a five-star hotel.

Centre Parcs, UK-wide

Often billed as ‘the ultimate UK family adventure break’, Centre Parcs blends the best of both fun and relaxation for the whole family’s perfect break.

A thrilling mix of outdoor activities, action challenges and watersports are complimented by relaxing saunas and spas, set in five beautiful locations across the UK, including Bedfordshire, Wiltshire, Suffolk, Nottinghamshire and Cumbria.

Go Ape, UK-wide

Get in touch with your inner Tarzan! If you're looking to live life a little more on the wild side, this is the break for you.

With 28 Go Ape adventures dotted around England's spectacular forests, all your friends and family can enjoy Tree Top Adventures, Forest Segway Safaris and a forest-wide Zip Trekking Adventure.

Coastal getaways

There’s nothing quite like the fresh air, scenic views and traditional tranquility of the English coast to help you hit the reset button and feel your best.

Check out our favourite coastal locations...

English Riviera, Devon

Nestling along 22 miles of English Riviera coastline are 20 breathtaking beaches and coves. This unique corner of the UK is home to naturally-growing palm trees, thanks to a Gulf Stream which brings a mild climate.

With an award-winning mixture of white sand and pebble beaches, you can feel refreshed again in no time. Plus, each beach is a short stroll from classic British resorts such as Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, some of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations.

Weston Super Mare, Somerset

Boasting eleven beautiful beaches, Weston Super Mare is a popular UK day trip destination with a fantastic reputation for family fun.

A wide range of attractions are nearby, including the Sea Aquarium, Wookey Hole Caves and Grand Pier. We’re sure you'll be guaranteed a great day no matter who you bring along.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Lancashire

One of the most famous holiday destinations in the UK, with good reason too! Blackpool offers so much more than a traditional beach escape, and is a must-visit location for anyone looking for a traditional taste of British holiday fun.

Miles of golden sands with donkey rides and Punch and Judy shows sit next to one of the world's wildest theme parks, Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Full of rides for thrill-seekers, as well as cafes, shops and play areas, it’s ideal for those looking for a classic English trip.

Theme parks & zoos

Send your adrenaline pumping with every loop of England's finest rollercoasters, or take a gentle stroll to see your favourites from the animal kingdom.

Take a look at our top parks and zoos…

Drayton Manor, Tamworth, Staffordshire

This is one of Europe's most popular theme parks, with rides suitable for everyone from toddlers to thrill-seekers. But if big rides aren’t your thing, don’t worry; it's easy to relax with a stroll around these 280-acre grounds of lakes and parkland.

There's also no shortage of choice when it comes to dining, with fast food outlets and restaurants dotted throughout the site.

Chessington World of Adventures, Surrey

Not just a theme park but also a wild journey! Take a safari truck expedition into the mysterious African Kingdom with Zufari, the first ever theme park adventure with live animals including white rhino, giraffes and zebra.

The zoo boasts more than 1000 animals, from the exotic to the endangered, at a venue that guarantees a day out with a difference.

Thorpe Park, Surrey

Thorpe Park offers you some of the most extreme and exciting rides in the whole of Europe - it's a thrilling day out for adrenaline junkies.

From the UK's tallest log flume to Europe's highest and fastest launch rollercoaster, there are loads of unique attractions at this ever-popular theme park.

Chester Zoo, Chester

From baby tiger cubs to 110 acres of award-winning gardens, Chester Zoo is a perfect summer day out for all the family.

There are always opportunities for you to join in on festivities as the zoo celebrates big events like World Rhino Day, Summer Stampede and Wildlife Connections Festival.

City breaks

Want to spend some time where all the action happens in the hustle and bustle of city life?

Explore our most popular city destinations…

In the vibrant heart of the country sits Birmingham, England's second capital city. And it’s just one comfortable coach journey away with our fantastic Day Return deals.

If you're looking to experience authentic British tradition, culture, shopping and entertainment, there's really no better place to visit than this lively, diverse city.

Discover more on our Birmingham webpage .

Packed with award-winning city centre attractions, breathtaking coast and countryside, plus a cultural scene to rival the capital, you won't be short of things to do in Liverpool.

A haven for shoppers, music fans and families seeking fun, Liverpool is a friendly city that welcomes millions of tourists each year.

Plan your trip on our Liverpool webpage .

As one of the most visited cities in the world, London needs little introduction. With such a wealth of attractions; from art and history to food and culture, you'll be spoiled for choice as to how to spend your time here.

From historic buildings such as Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge and attractions like the London Eye and Madame Tussauds, London is a city that offers a memorable experience to any visitor.

Find out more on our London webpage .

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath invites you to explore its unique mix of stunning architecture, rich heritage and rolling countryside.

From relaxing, natural spa's to high-octane family fun, acres of Royal gardens and picturesque coastlines and beaches, Bath offers the perfect break for visitors, no matter what you're looking for.

Explore your options on our Bath webpage.

Steeped in history, Oxford is a perfect city to stroll around and take in all it has to offer. If you're looking for something a little more adventurous then take a trip down the River Cherwell in a traditional Oxford punt boat.

Worth a note, the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse offers punts, rowing boats and pedalos for hire for a classically English day out.

Get inspired on our Oxford webpage .

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Your Open Dated Return is valid for 3 months from your outbound journey. To guarantee your seat on your return you need to confirm your ticket before you travel on www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call 0371 781 8181.

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If your return date is not yet known, open return tickets provide flexibility. When travelling within the UK, the return journey can be made within 3 months of the outward date of travel. To guarantee your seat on your return journey you need to confirm your ticket before you travel by visiting www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call us on 03717 81 81 81. Lines open 7 days a week, 8am - 8pm (calls to this number are charged at local rate). Valid on any day throughout the year.

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Children aged between approximately 4-11 years old, or up to 150cm tall, may use booster seats. We carry a limited number onboard most coaches.

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Children aged between approximately 4 years and 11 years or up to 150cm tall may use booster seats, we carry a limited number onboard most coaches along with our comfort fit seat belts.

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The Best USA Road Trips In July

It’s no secret that when summertime rolls around, we start daydreaming of all the road trips we want to take. White sandy beaches, stunning waterfalls, scenic drives with the top down on a jeep? Find a good playlist and you’re making memories to last a lifetime. Here are the best places to travel in July in the United States!

P.S. In the US, the 4th of July is a national holiday, and even when it falls on a weekend – we’re typically rewarded with an extra day off that weekend. It’s one of the busiest times to travel during the summer so make sure you plan ahead!!

A Gilmore Girls Adventure in Connecticut

Starting with a more off-the-beaten-path location for your summer road trip – consider Connecticut! Home to the birthplace of the American hamburger, miles of sandy beaches, and the inspiration for Gilmore Girls – you’ll find plenty to do in this tiny state.

Starting your road trip from New York City, you can enter Connecticut within an hour by car (45 minutes by train). From there, start driving North to the tiny towns of Leightfield like Washinton and Bantam that inspired Amy Sherman-Palladino to create the idyllic Stars Hollow. You’ll immediately find yourself immersed in a very Gilmore Girls vibe! These tiny towns were the inspiration for the show with charming shops around every corner and not a Starbucks in sight!

After getting your Gilmore Girls fix, head about 40 minutes east to Lake Campounce , America’s oldest theme park ! Operating since 1846, Lake Compounce has a waterpark and regular rides for a refreshing break from the summer heat.

Once you’ve eaten all the cotton candy your stomach can handle, hop back in the car and head to Gilette Castle State Park! Perched on the beautiful Connecticut River, Gilette Castle is a mid-evil fortress completed in 1919, and open to the public. The over 140-acre grounds would be breathtaking to walk through at dusk!

Connecticut’s Coast

Following a tour of the delightful Gilette castle, take your summer road trip to the coast, starting with the charming town of Old Saybrook. Along with lighthouses dotting the shore, you’ll soon run into Connecticut’s pristine, two-mile-long Hammonasset Beach . Before continuing on your journey down the coast, we highly recommend spending an afternoon lounging here! It’s one of the best places to travel to in July for uncrowded beaches! (But maybe not 4th of July…)

• Make sure you grab a lobster roll while in Connecticut! If you’ve never experienced one before – your summer road trip won’t be complete without one of these New England native delicacies. Lobster meat slathered in mayonnaise, butter, and lemon juice sauce on a fresh hot dog bun is one of the most delicious things you’ll eat in the Northeast!

Eat your lobster roll, catch some sun, and then continue down the coast to New Haven. New Haven is home to two of the things America is most famous for: Yale University and the American Hamburger!!

• Yale University: Why would you want to stroll through a college campus? Not only was it the college stomping grounds for our favorite young Gilmore Girl, Rory, the grounds themselves are also picturesque. Founded in 1701, you can take a guided tour through the historic 136 acres of architectural masterpieces!
• Louis Lunch: The birthplace of the American Hamburger according to Congress !! Established in 1895 – this 4th generation family business still serves their burgers on white toast, with only cheese onion, and tomatoes for garnishes.

Ideal Road Trip Time: 3-4 Days

Explore ‘The Nation’s Summer Capitol’ : Delaware

The second smallest state in the US, Delaware was the first to become an official state of the US , having signed the constitution in 1787! Home to 28 miles of shoreline, historic forts, and cypress swamps, Delaware makes for a perfect budget-friendly USA destination in July.

When you think of beaches in the United States – most people think of Florida, California, and Hawaii. Delaware, however, is considered ‘The Nation’s Summer Capitol’ because a mass exodus occurs from Washington D.C. to their sandy shores every year! There is even a 40 year old National Sandcastle Building Contest in mid-July at Delaware Seashore State Park … we would definitely participate and let the good-natured competitiveness take over!

• Most Popular Beaches in Delaware: Broadkill Beach, Fenwick Island, Lewes Beach, Cape Henlopen State Park, and Delaware Seashore State Park

other Than The Beach

When you’re done frolicking in the Atlantic, you can head to a few more of Delaware’s claims to fame.

• Fort Delaware State Park : A ‘living museum’ complete with live cannon demonstrations and period re-enactments of blacksmiths, soldiers, and commanders who lived at Fort Delaware during the Civil War!
• Dogfish Head Brewery – home to one of Ev’s favorite beers: the Dogfish 120 Minute IPA! Since Ev used to live close, he’s actually been to this brewery quite a few times and said the best part is their restaurant!
• Trap Pond State Park : The home of Delaware’s Cyprus Tree Swamp – this location is famous for kayaking on the East Coast!

Ideal Road Trip Time: 3 Days

Be Pleasantly Surprised in Kansas

Home to the Kansas City Chiefs, Monument Rocks State Park, and some of the prettiest sunsets in the USA , Kansas should be on your bucket list for July. It’s one of those states people often skip over on road trips – we definitely have for years! After the last few years though, we’ve started to look at all of the not so Instagrammed places to travel this summer. Here are a few stops throughout this Midwest State we’d love:

• Visit Lavender Farms Near Topeka : Kansas is a breeding ground for these stunning lavender farms! There are quite a few throughout Kansas but these are the top-rated: The Lavender Patch Farm , Gertie’s Lavender Farm , and Washington Creek Lavender .
• Mushroom State Park : These odd formations only exist in one other place in the US!
• Monument Rocks: The perfect road trip stop along I-70 when you’re driving across the state. (Try to catch it at sunset!)

Kansas City

The 29th biggest city in the United States and home to a to of craft breweries, an NFL team, and air-conditioned museums when you need to cool off during your travel this summer! Here are a few things you can do during your summer road trip through Kansas City:

• Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – Ranked #2 in the country, you’ll have to stop in and grab brunt ends and slow-smoked brisket!
• Kansas City Chiefs NFL Football Game : A top-ranking NFL team! Whether or not you’re specifically into sports, it’s always fun to go to live events. Get a hot dog and an ice-cold beer!
• Nelson Atkins Museum of Art: One of the biggest art museums in the country, this museum holds of thirty-five thousand works!!
• Percheron Rooftop Beer Garden : The best views of the city and stunning at sunset.

Ideal Road Trip Time: 4 Days

Across The Plains of Iowa

If you’re looking for budget-friendly destinations to travel to this summer, add Iowa to your list for the best places to travel in July. Here are a few of our favorite itinerary items for a road trip through the birthplace of cornhole:

• For the hiker : Northwest Iowa is home to the mountainous region of Decorah and Iowas Great River Road Trails.
• Pella Historical Village District would be fun to walk through on an afternoon and see the historic Vermeer Windmill. Surrounding thousands of tulips, this village looks like it’s straight out of Holland.
• The Influence – Selfie Museum – The first one of its kind in the US – this museum explores selfie culture and its effects on humanity. We’re sure it’s interesting… but also sounds like a fun place to get out and enjoy air-conditioning!
• National Balloon Classic: At the end of July and into the first week of August, hundreds of hot air balloons will take to the skies over Iowa! Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy watching them all glow at sunset for a perfect way to end your July road trip through Iowa!

The Lush Forests of Kentucky

Kentucky is one of those states that Instagram just hasn’t discovered yet. We’ve lived here for a few years together and are just now seeing all that it has to offer! From waterfalls, incredibly lush forests, and hiking to die for – it’s one of the USA’s best places to travel in July.

Get your FREE Kentucky Summer Bucket List Guide Below!

If You Like Music & 5-Minute Escapes…

You may not get to leave your day job, but you can take a 5-minute daydream break. Sometimes that’s just as good. Get your monthly playlists here & our Kentucky Summer Bucket List FREE Printable Guide!

For a few of our favorite Kentucky activities this summer, check out these posts:

• The Ultimate Kentucky Summer Bucket List
• Waterfalls of Southern Daniel Boone National Park
• Best Taco’s In Louisville Kentucky

There are so many places to explore in Kentucky, so we recommend hitting a few highlights like the Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge, and Louisville! (There’s so much to see and do in Louisville – it’s our biggest city! Get all of our Louisville guides here. )

Don’t forget to check out our gear guide for waterfall hiking ! You’ll need it for exploring over 700 waterfalls that call Kentucky home!

Ideal Road Trip Time: 5 Days

A Watery Wilderness Adventure in WISCONSIN

Wisconsin should be on every avid outdoor adventurer’s bucket list in July. Perched on the Canadian-United States border, Wisconsin also straddles two of the great lakes: Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. This area of the country is famous for its epic hiking and kayaking with some of the clearest water through the United States.

These are our bucket list outdoor adventures throughout Wisconsin:

• Apostle Islands Sea Caves : A premier kayaking destination in the USA! Truly in our top ten bucket list experiences we want to have in the USA.
• Witches Gulch
• Devil’s Lake State Park- Named the prettiest place in Wisconsin by a few travel publications!
• Ice Age Trail – 1,200 Miles through Wisconsin’s prairies and forests.
• Interstate State Park – Along the stunning St.Croix National Scenic Riverway

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hiking destination, Wisconsin should also be one of your go-tos because the weather is perfect for camping . With their dryer summer season hovering in the 80s during the day, and 50’s at night – you can hike in relatively warm weather, and cuddle up at night by the fire! (Camping is the most budget-friendly way to travel!)

Explore Minnesota’s Wild Side

Did you know that Minnesota has ninety thousand miles of shoreline? That’s more than California, Florida and Hawaii have combined! Not only will you find incredibly clean beaches springing out of Minnesota’s pristine wilderness, but you’ll also find epic scenery and hiking around every turn. There is no end to the number of gorgeous photography destinations for the avid photographer too!

If we were planning a summer road trip in July through Minnesota, this would be our itinerary:

• Mall of America – Day 1: Located in Minneapolis, this is the biggest mall in the United States with over 4.3 miles of storefronts! (And a small theme park located inside!)
• City of Duluth – Day 2: Perched on the edge of Lake Michigan and arguably one of the prettiest
• Itasca State Park – Day 3: – One of the prettiest parks in Minnesota with a ton of magnificent hiking adventures!
• Boundary Waters – Day 4: – We’ve read it’s a life-changing experience to kayak here!
• Whitewater Rafting – Day 5: In the land of 10,000 lakes, Class III rapids are a no-joke adventure sure to help you cool off this July!

Relax At Indiana Dunes State Park

The last but not least stop on your summer road trip in July should be the Indiana Dunes State Park . With some of the bluest (cleanest) waters on the Great Lakes, miles of sandy beaches, and being only 30 minutes from Chicago – it’s really a perfect stop. So what is there to do at the Dunes?

• 50 Miles of Hiking Trails
• 15 Miles of Sandy Beaches
• Rare bird watching – Take a virtual tour here!

Not to mention it would be great to camp here, making this another budget-friendly USA destination this July ! The temperatures in this area, combined with the cool breezes flowing off of Lake Michigan mean you won’t be too hot at night, even in the dead of summer.

This is the second destination we’ve shared as some of the best places to travel in July, and for good reason! It’s incredibly scenic and if you’re looking to take a longer trip – just add in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Kentucky to avoid the crowds and take in these beautiful states. (You’ll probably need about 2 weeks for a trip like that!)

Ideal Road Trip Time: 2 Days

share this guide

Did you find inspiration for all the best places to travel in July? We have a few more guides for where to travel this summer, fall, and winter.

• The Best Places To Travel in February
• Where To Travel This Summer in August
• Best Places To Catch Fall Foliage in September
• The Best Destinations To Enjoy this December

If you’ve found this post helpful, save it for later to aid you in planning! Drop us any planning questions in the comments below.

Make sure to subscribe to our blog , snag all of your road trip basics (below), get your travel insurance , and have fun jamming to a new playlist !

Until next time friends,

Thanks for sharing!

Evan and Shelby

Sharing beautiful places, sustainable & slow living tips, + good food from across the globe. You can probably find Shelbs creating a new playlist or editing photos, and Ev researching the latest and greatest in all manner of travel gear and tech. We're so happy you're here taking a moment to read and slow down a little.

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The 15 best travel movies to inspire your bucket list, the ultimate guide to hiking with dogs, your ultimate kentucky spring bucket list.

I might have to check a few of these out this summer – Montana and Wyoming are always SO PACKED! Thanks for the ideas!

Such great ideas, I love anything Gilmore Girls related haha ??

I love the sound of the lavender fields in Kansas, and Wisconsin looks so pretty. What I love about this post is that it’s a bunch of places I haven’t heard as much about and yet now I really want to visit them all for various reasons. I do enjoy a good road trip, going to have to keep these ideas in mind

Rachel - Rays of Adventure

These all look great! I love the look of Iowa in particular. I can’t wait to travel to the USA again and visit some of these places.

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16 Best Places to Travel in October

These are the best places to visit in October in the United States and around the world.

Greater Palm Springs, California

Austin, texas, scottsdale, arizona, savannah, georgia, dallas, texas, st. pete-clearwater, florida, the eastern sierras, california, cappadocia, turkey, kyoto, japan, florence, italy, okanagan valley, canada, phuket, thailand, the cotswolds, united kingdom, mexico city, mexico.

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It’s just about unanimous among travelers and Travel + Leisure's A-List advisors — October is a great month to travel, whether for an extended trip or a weekend getaway. The weather is mild in most places, fall foliage is beautifying the landscape, and crowds are manageable, especially compared to the busy summer travel season. Special events offer even more reasons to plan a trip. Here are 16 of the best places to travel in October in the U.S. and around the world.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

As someone who spends time in the Palm Springs area year-round, I can say that October is my favorite month in the Coachella Valley. The weather is clear and warm — in the mid-80s with cooler evenings — and the winter visitors haven’t arrived yet, so hotel prices are attractive and restaurant reservations are easier to get. It’s a great time for shopping, dining, and enjoying the nine cities of Greater Palm Springs . Visit The Living Desert , hike in the Indian Canyons, soak in natural hot springs, relax at the Spa at Séc-He ,  tour museums, or shop downtown Palm Springs boutiques or El Paseo’s designer stores. Known for midcentury architecture, Palm Springs will host Modernism Week Oct. 24-27 with tours and home visits. Nearby, the Joshua Tree Music Festival is set for Oct. 10-13 at the gateway to the national park.

Where to Stay: From resorts to rentals, visitors have many lodging options. Sensei Porcupine Creek is a luxury wellness resort with a gorgeous golf course and tennis program. The Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas will debut major renovations in September. The new Thompson Palm Springs is expected to open in September in downtown Palm Springs, blocks from the also-exceptional Kimpton Rowan . The adults-only Azure Palm Hot Springs features natural mineral springs and spa treatments.

“October is the best time to come to Austin," says Erin Lindsey, Austin local and vice president at Bunkhouse Hotels . "The weather is finally cooler, so Austinites pack some of the best events of the whole year into this month." Lindsey's favorite is the Levitation music festival held during Halloween weekend, but there are plenty of others: Austin City Limits Music Festival (Oct. 4-6 and 11-13), which brings in top names to perform at Zilker Park; the Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix (Oct. 18-20), including concert performances in the racetrack's infield; the Austin Film Festival (Oct. 24-31), which brings top-billed films and indies to the city; and the Austin Horror Film Festival , set for Oct. 17-19.

Where to Stay: In the heart of downtown, stay at sibling properties Thompson and Tommie Austin or Hyatt Centric Congress Avenue Austin .  Hotel Van Zandt debuts its new lobby bar, Brass Poppy, in September. A short walk from Zilker, Carpenter Hotel is a perfect festival home base. Hotel Saint Cecilia is luxurious and secluded, and Austin Motel offers a fun and affordable experience

A quintessential destination for leaf peepers, Vermont is an ideal place to enjoy crisp October air, foliage in shades from gold to crimson, apple picking, and outdoor activities. “It’s no secret New England is one of the best places in the world for leaf peeping, and for good reason," says Bruce Grosbety, president of Woodstock Inn & Resort . But that's not the only reason to visit. “Come for the foliage," he says, "but stay for the hiking trails that you’ll find steps from our inn’s door and community events that draw in local artisans and food producers from around Vermont.” The Green Mountain State is home to wineries, breweries, cheesemakers, farms, and sugarhouses for maple syrup. Museums showcase art, nature, and Vermont’s history. In Woodstock, be sure to check out the Annual Woodstock Apples & Crafts Fair & Food Truck Festival , celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Where to Stay: T+L has plenty of suggestions for a romantic getaway in Vermont , including the Woodstock Inn, The Hermitage Inn in West Dover, and Twin Farms , set on 300 acres in Barnard. The Weston provides another luxury boutique option in the Green Mountains, while Hotel Champlain and Hotel Vermont are two notable properties in Burlington.

Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

October is a prime month in Scottsdale, with temperatures in the low 80s by day and even cooler temps at night. You can still enjoy poolside relaxing, but it’s also a great time to experience the beautiful outdoors with a hike, a visit to the Old Town farmers market or a local pumpkin patch, or a side trip for some leaf peeping in Sedona . Another experience worth having is Ales on Rails , a four-hour Oktoberfest train ride that pairs the vibrant foliage of Sycamore Wilderness with Arizona craft beers. It runs most days from Sept. 17-Oct. 31. Getting to the city is easier than ever this fall, too, since JSX hop-on jet services will add a new nonstop route connecting Scottsdale and Dallas beginning Oct. 3.

Where to Stay: Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort & Spa , offers tennis and pickleball courts. Golfers will enjoy the short course at Mountain Shadows Resort and the two scenic and challenging courses at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North . W Scottsdale is located in the Entertainment District near Old Town Scottsdale. I’ve enjoyed a stay at Hotel Valley Ho , with its clever midcentury style and ZuZu restaurant offering over-the-top desserts.

Heather Durham/Travel + Leisure

In the midst of shoulder season, October is pleasant in Savannah with cooling temperatures and many ways to enjoy being outdoors. Whether it’s your first visit or a return to a favorite city, you’ll want to stroll through the squares among the ancient oak trees or along River Street’s cobblestones, perhaps watching the activity on the river. My husband and I did both when we visited Savannah, and the waterfront walk was fun, with cafés, shops, statues, and places to stop and watch the ships. October is a good time to get into the Halloween spirit with a ghost tour that combines history, folklore, and scary stories. The Savannah Film Festival is set for Oct. 26-Nov. 2, and jazz fans might want to visit in September for the Jazz Festival (Sept. 18-22). From great food to history, you’ll find lots of things to do in Savannah .

Where to Stay: Perry Lane Hotel , with a rooftop pool and bar, topped the list of reader favorites in Georgia in T+L’s 2024 World’s Best Awards . The Alida , located downtown on River Street, also made the list. Also along the river, Thompson Savannah offers pet-friendly rooms at no extra fee in the heart of the Historic District.

Vincent Mercer/Travel + Leisure

The annual State Fair of Texas (Sept. 27-Oct. 20) is a great reason to visit Dallas in early autumn, when live music, cooking contests, livestock exhibitions, and Texas-style events continue the traditions that began in 1886. The weather is in the comfortable 70s with cool nights during the end of the month, and there are plenty of things to do in Dallas in addition to the fair. The downtown Arts District is home to museums, performing arts venues, restaurants, and bars in a walkable 68-acre area. Visitors can enjoy the autumn weather outdoors by hiking on trails, exploring gardens and parks, or heading to the Dallas Zoo. Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) offers convenient transportation from Dallas Fort Worth Airport directly to downtown Dallas.

Where to Stay: The Adolphus is located in the heart of downtown, as is The Joule , set nearby in a 1920s Neo-Gothic bank building. Uptown, the boutique Hôtel Swexan features a rooftop infinity pool, while the Ritz-Carlton Dallas offers suites overlooking the skyline.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Set on the Gulf Coast, the St. Pete-Clearwater area is home to some of Florida's best beaches . Surrounded by the Intracoastal Waterway, Tampa Bay, and the Gulf, activities on the water include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, sunset cruises, and speedboat rides. Stroll the boardwalks at Boca Ciega Millennium Park, Sawgrass Lake Park, or Weedon Island Preserve, or enjoy the views from the new St. Pete Pier. From Oct. 11-20, the arts community comes alive with the annual SHINE Mural Festival , transforming St. Pete into a curated, open-air museum with murals by international, national, and local artists. Visitors can take in the sights on a 2.5-hour, professionally guided trolley tour, or check out the Dalí Museum, which currently features Dalí Alive 360° , an immersive experience that makes for a fascinating way to enjoy the artist's work.

Where to Stay: The St. Petersburg Vinoy Resort & Golf Club debuted in 1925 but received a major revamp last year. The Don CeSar , known as the Pink Palace, is another St. Pete-area icon. Downtown, the new lifestyle hotel Moxy St. Pete debuts in August.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Well away from iconic Highway One on California’s coast, another scenic drive, Highway 395, takes visitors east of the Sierra Nevada Mountains through the area known as the Eastern Sierras . Along the way, there’s Yosemite National Park , Mammoth Lakes , Mt. Whitney (the highest point in the Lower 48), the town of Bishop , and Mono Lake , with its unusual limestone formations. “October is a beautiful time to visit Bishop and experience the great outdoors. It’s a great time for hiking, fishing, biking, and trail running,” according to Phil Hospod, CEO and founder of Dovetail + Co . “This is the time of year when vibrant fall foliage colors paint the Eastern Sierra landscape and add to the scenic beauty of the alpine region.” Over the Nevada border, visitors can tour Frey Ranch Distillery , a 2,000-acre farm and distillery that produces an exceptional straight bourbon whiskey.

Where to Stay: The Wayfinder Bishop features cozy rooms, local art, and two restaurants. In California’s “Lost Sierras,” Greenhorn Ranch , once a goat farm during the gold rush, is a 608-acre, all-inclusive guest ranch with horseback trail rides, fly fishing, mountain biking, archery, gold panning, and whiskey tastings. The historic National Exchange Hotel dates back to an 1856 gold mining camp. Nearby, the Holbrooke Hotel is a renovated California Historical Landmark.

This World Heritage Site in central Turkey features a dramatic landscape of volcanic rock, valleys, caves, and formations referred to as “fairy chimneys.” Engin Kadaster , a T+L A-List advisor, says, “The colors of the fall foliage make October a great time to visit Cappadocia, and the view from the hot air balloons is absolutely amazing with leaves turning red and yellow, making the region’s rock formations look even more fascinating.” The area is home to world-class wineries producing unique Cappadocia varietals and, according to Kadaster, the grape harvest begins after mid-September. “In addition to underground cities and cave churches, Cappadocia offers charming villages. In October, the villagers get ready for winter, hanging eggplants and peppers on strings to dry, adding to the fall colors." Hot air balloon trips, available throughout the year, are a great way to experience Cappadocia from above.

Where to Stay: Argos in Cappadocia is a luxury boutique hotel carved into a hillside with caves, tunnels, multiple restaurants, and Turkey's largest underground cave spa, which opened this spring.

Daneil Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

“October is my personal favorite month to travel to Japan in general, and especially Kyoto,” A-List advisor Rebecca Mazzaro tells T+L. “One of the main reasons is the fabulous weather — mild temperatures, low humidity, bluebird days, and ideal conditions for exploring this spectacular city with endless invaluable treasures.” More than 2,000 shrines and temples are among those treasures, as are gardens, forests, bamboo groves, and excellent restaurants. In addition, Mazzaro continues, “Come late October, the stunning fall foliage begins to show its brilliant colors, and there are fewer crowds than during the peak fall color season in November. Finally, October is one of the best times to enjoy dishes made with fresh, local, seasonal ingredients such as chestnuts, mushrooms, and vegetables.” The high-speed train from Tokyo is a convenient and exciting way to arrive in Kyoto.

Where to Stay: The best hotels in Kyoto range from traditional to modern. The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu is a memorable property set in a refurbished 1933 schoolhouse. You could also opt for one of the city's newest openings: Six Senses Kyoto opened in April, and Banyan Tree Higashiyama is set to open in late August.

Evgeniya Vlasova/Travel + Leisure

A center of art, culture, and history and the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is one of Italy’s most popular cities. By October, summer’s crowds have gone and the pace has slowed, making this the month ideal for enjoying museums, restaurants, and the city’s atmosphere. A-List advisor Andrea Grisdale says, “I love Florence in October as the weather is generally very pleasant around 68℉ during the day with blue skies, so it’s not too hot — perfect for exploring. Then it gets chillier in the late afternoon/evening, so you need a light sweater or jacket.” Grisdale mentions the Oct. 8 Festival of Santa Reparata , patron saint of Florence, as a great opportunity to mingle with locals as they celebrate. It’s also a time, she says, of food, wine, olive, and truffle-related events in the towns of Tuscany. “Florence is a great base for day trips into the Tuscan countryside for bike riding, wine tasting, hot air ballooning, without the heat of summer.”

Where to Stay:   Hotel Torre di Bellosguardo is set in the hills of Florence with stunning views of the city. Hotel Calimala is located in the city’s historic center. You can also check out T+L's suggestions for Florence hotels based on the advice of locals and travel experts.

John Elk III/Getty Images

This year-round destination in south-central British Columbia is known for farms, orchards, wineries, and stunning scenery. According to T+L A-List advisor Marc Telio , “October is a fantastic time of the year to visit as it’s harvest season, and orchards are bursting with apples, a fruit Kelowna is famed for. The city celebrates through culinary events, from harvest dinners in vineyards to chefs incorporating ingredients in seasonal menus.” October also brings colorful autumn foliage and the wine grape harvest. The Fall Okanagan Wine Festival is set for Oct. 18-19 and 26-27. “During October, the weather is still enjoyable for outdoor activities. While other parts of Canada are cooling down, you can extend your cycling season, enjoy scenic hikes, or go paddling on the lake,” Telio says. “Birding is also popular, and October is a great migration season to get out there and birdwatch.” The Okanagan Symphony Orchestra kicks off their season in October, and Prospera Place hosts a variety of events.

Where to Stay: Naramata Inn , on the shores of Lake Okanagan, is a historic boutique property boasting 12 rooms and The Restaurant at Naramata Inn . Lodging options in Kelowna , Penticton , and Vernon offer a range of places to stay.

Bento Fotography/Getty Images

Located in the Andaman Sea, the island of Phuket is known for white-sand beaches, clear seas, gorgeous sunsets, and delicious cuisine. Thailand’s largest island is about an hour flight from Bangkok via Phuket International Airport on the north end of the island. According to A-List advisor Grant Ekelund , visitors arriving in October “get the best of both worlds.” It’s the “tail end of the Green Season, so there shouldn’t be much rain, but things are still lush and green. [There's] also the shoulder-season bonus of decent weather without peak-season crowds and peak-season pricing.” Most visitors come for the beaches, boat tours, and scenery, but the cultural attractions are fascinating as well.The Phuket Vegetarian Festival , Oct. 3-11, is a major event with festive decorations and displays of vegetarian dishes of all kinds. The Big Buddha, a giant statue of Burmese alabaster on the peak of Mount Nagakerd, is beautiful in itself, and it’s a vantage point for panoramic views.

Where to Stay: V Villas Phuket , a luxury villa resort, offers panoramic Andaman Sea views. COMO Point Yamu and Melia Phuket Mai Khao are also excellent options.

Eduardo Fonseca Arraes/Getty Images

Having owned a cottage in the Cotswolds for 18 years, Ellen LeCompte speaks from experience. “October in the Cotswolds is my favorite month, actually," says LeCompte, who's been a T+L A-List advisor for the UK since 2003. "The hordes of summer tourists are gone, and the weather is wonderful with blue skies and white puffy clouds — perfect for exploring the many walking paths and then curling up by a country hotel fire or a cozy village tea shop with a pot of tea and a plate of scones.” LeCompte certainly paints a charming picture of autumn in the English countryside as she continues: “There is the Cheltenham Literary Festival, Oct. 4-13, celebrating its 75th anniversary with a terrific lineup of authors. Kids love Birdland, the Cotswold Farm Park, the Falconry Centre, and sheep everywhere!” The area also boasts excellent restaurants and gastro pubs, antique shops, village churches, and a wide variety of local shops and craft centers.

Where to Stay: The Lygon Arms in Broadway offers traditional afternoon tea as well as lunch and dinner at Tavern.

Itzel Garrido/Travel + Leisure

“October is an ideal time to visit Mexico City as the rainy season subsides, leaving better visibility — you may even get an early-morning peek of the towering Popo and Izta volcanoes from a good vantage point if you’re lucky,” says A-List advisor Zachary Rabinor . “The St. Regis and Ritz-Carlton both have privileged views,” he adds. Visitors will want to explore Mexico City’s neighborhoods, as well as museums like the Casa Azul , Palacio de Bellas Artes , and the National Museum of Anthropology . “Towards the end of the month, you’ll find the iconic Paseo de la Reforma lined with vibrant orange marigolds in preparation for Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a dramatic sight,” Rabinor says. Along with the holiday, Mexico welcomes the Formula 1 Grand Prix from Oct. 25-27, making late October an exciting time to be in Mexico’s capital.

Where to Stay: T+L has a variety of suggestions for our editors' favorite Mexico City hotels , including the St. Regis Mexico City . Apart from these, the excellent boutique Hotel Volga , Hotel Alexander , and Hotel San Fernando are worth considering.

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

Located in the southwest corner of Africa, Namibia is said to be at its best during the winter months from June to October when the weather is dry. It’s peak season for wildlife viewing as the desert becomes dry and animals seek out water holes, gathering in large groups. As summer approaches during this shoulder month, the weather warms, reaching into the 80s by day while nights are still chilly. Speaking of nights, Namibia’s night skies are clear, and stargazing is an exciting way to enjoy the hours of darkness. Etosha National Park ’s notable feature is an expansive salt pan, used by some wildlife as a salt lick during the dry season. In rainy years, the pan becomes a lake, attracting thousands of migrating flamingos. At water holes in the park, visitors can observe lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, wildebeests, and more.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are available both inside and outside Etosha National Park. If you're looking for a guided tour, try GeoEx . The company recently launched a new suite of women-focused itineraries, including trips exploring Namibia from Sept. 1-13 and Oct. 14-26.

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Porchfest, Chelsea Handler, ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ and more to do this weekend

Plus, two options for takeout chicken wings to pair with Sunday's Patriots game.

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Chelsea Handler at the 29th Annual Critics Choice Awards in Santa Monica, California on Jan. 14, 2024. Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock.com

Can you even handle how much is going on this weekend?

For one, there’s the Chelsea Handler show at Merrill Auditorium on Friday. There’s also the HenryFest music festival in North Yarmouth on Sunday,  the Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival in Wells on Saturday and Sunday and the Portland Maine Comedy Festival all weekend long.

What? That’s not enough? Then head to see Pigeons Playing Ping Pong at Thompson’s Point on Sunday. We’ve got the skinny on all of these things , so hop to it.

Chelsea Handler, HenryFest, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong and more comedy

Musician Jon King who performs and records under the name King Kyote.

There’s a ton of other live music options to choose from this weekend .

The final show at Sun Tiki Studios in Portland is on Friday, featuring Vapors of Morphine with local opener Sparxsea.

Then there’s a pair of pretty epic festivals to choose from. Advertisement

On Saturday, WMPG presents McGoldROCKS Music Festival with Plague Dad, Vices Inc., Euphemia, Bondeko and Spose. The music happens on the University of Southern Maine campus in Portland.

Also on Saturday is the Big Falls Music & Cider Fest in New Gloucester, featuring Hayley Jane, King Kyote and Love By Numb3rs, among other acts.

Sun Tiki Studios holds its last show, plus 2 festivals happening Saturday

Drumstick with fire sauce from Leonardo’s in Portland. Photo by Leslie Bridgers

Fans of the New England Patriots, rejoice! The first game of the season is Sunday at 1 p.m. against the Cincinnati Bengals. One of the best parts of watching a Pats game at home is the ability to eat whatever you want, including the qunitessential football snack: chicken wings. Two tasty choices of wings are available at Smoked and Leonardo’s, both on Forest Avenue in Portland, and both open well before kick-off to make your takeout dreams come true.

For football season, 2 choices for takeout chicken wings on Forest Avenue

Bob Carroll hosts a band or two in his driveway on Bedell Street during Deering Center’s annual Porchfest. Photo courtesy of Bob Carroll

Porchfest is an annual event in Portland’s Deering Center neighborhood that features several residences hosting local music performances on porches and in driveways and yards. The music starts at 12:15 p.m. Sunday. Check out our interview with Bob Carroll, one of the Porchfest hosts.

What to expect at Porchfest, from a longtime host of the Deering Center event

Latrice Royale plays the man-eating plant in “Little Shop of Horrors” at Ogunquit Playhouse, through Sept. 21. Photo by Jeremy Daniel

It might technically still be summer, but fall theater season is upon us, and we’ve got the lowdown on several upcoming productions, including Portland Players’ “Legally Blonde: The Musical.” For instant theater gratification, see “Little Shop of Horrors” now through Sept. 21 at Ogunquit Playhouse.

Two different takes on ‘Dracula’ and a dozen other plays you can see this fall

This story was updated today to remove an event that has passed.

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