Temperatures are rising and Americans are starting to plan their next big Summer getaway, but where will they go? From up-and-coming cities to Summer festivals, we've rounded up the 10 coolest destinations throughout America that are worth visiting this Summer.
The world-class Sonoma wine country, next to Napa Valley, offers more than 400 wineries, making it the perfect destination for a Summer trip. Sonoma is known for its premium wine, farm-to-table dining, unique resorts, and world-class spas. Stay at the luxurious Kenwood Inn and Spa, the county's best-kept secret for a tranquil and quiet Summer getaway.
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Asbury Park, New Jersey
Image Source: Nikolas Koenig
Asbury Park is known for its rich arts heritage with a renown set of live music and entertainment venues. Walk the historic beachfront promenade splashed with vibrant murals from local artists, and enjoy Summer-long bonfires on the beach. Full of trendy boutiques, cafes, and history, Asbury Park's lively, gay-friendly community, local cuisine, and concerts are one-of-a-kind. Visitors can stay at the first hotel to open in Asbury Park in more than 50 years, the 110-room Asbury Hotel, which features interiors inspired by the destination's mash-up of Victorian-era history and rock-'n'-roll present.
Dubbed "the new Austin," Reno Tahoe is the perfect road trip destination for West Coasters this Summer. Spend a weekend in both the hip Midtown District of Reno — filled with vibrant street art and dozens of local craft breweries — and at the largest alpine lake in America. Travelers can check out the Burning Man exhibit at the Nevada Museum of Art, grab bites at one of the food trucks at Idlewild Park, and take advantage of the hundreds of free events. Just 40 minutes outside the city, hit the quaint Incline Village in North Lake Tahoe to enjoy hiking, boating, SUP, and picnics on the hidden beaches.
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Dolores, Colorado
Image Source: Dunton Life
Dolores, Colorado, is an underrated destination for travelers looking for a new adventure this Summer. From fly fishing to mountain biking to rafting, it's a lively town with rich history and a variety of activities to choose from. For those seeking an exclusive experience, the nearby Dunton River Camp is comprised of eight luxurious canvas tents located only 20 feet from the Dolores River. The lodge features a restored 19th-century farm house and wraparound deck with spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains.
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Amelia Island, Florida
Image Source: The Ritz-Carlton
The classic seaside "Americana" destination of Amelia Island is brimming with incomparable coastal beauty and delightful character. Located in the North East corner of Florida, Amelia Island experiences opposite seasonality to the rest of Florida, meaning its peak season is in the Summer. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, poised on a bluff of dunes overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, is the perfect getaway for a classic beach vacation, with a number of new programs and activities perfect for any type of traveler this Summer.
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Newport, Rhode Island
Image Source: The Chanler
For a relaxing Summer destination, travelers can head to Newport, Rhode Island, to experience everything from al fresco dining to coastal beaches. The vintage mansion turned luxury boutique hotel The Chanler at Cliff Walk sits at the start of Newport's famous cliff walk. It has stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and makes for an ideal Summer getaway. The hotel's award-winning restaurant Spiced Pear utilizes seasonal fare as well as French, Italian, and Spanish influences.
Known as a gateway to Mount Rushmore, Rapid City is a great Summer destination for history buffs, boasting museums, street art, and idyllic shops. Visitors can participate in a free, interactive walking guide of the City of Presidents, a series of life-size bronze statues of our nation's past presidents along the city's streets and sidewalks. After a day of exploring, cap off the day with a stroll through Main Street Square, a community hub featuring various events for travelers to enjoy, as well as public art such as The Sculpture Project.
There are so many reasons to visit New Orleans in the summertime, including the Oyster Festival that features cooking demonstrations, live music, delicious local restaurants, and more. The W New Orleans — French Quarter hotel is in perfect proximity to stroll down the city's historic cobblestone streets, linger over live jazz music, sip on a cool drink on Bourbon Street, and taste authentic Louisiana cuisine.
Santa Fe, New Mexico, is the perfect Summer destination for foodies and culture-seekers. Visitors can drive to the scenic Abiquiu Lake in northern New Mexico for a one-of-a-kind camping experience or float high above the city in a hot air balloon ride. For an authentic, cultural vacation, stay at The Lodge at Santa Fe, where guests can sleep in a hilltop lodge overlooking the mountains.
One of New England's favorite weekend getaway destinations, Boston, is best explored in the Summer. There's no shortage of baseball games, outdoor dining and concerts, or neighborhoods to discover by foot or bike, not to mention the endless historic landmarks and monuments. Don't miss the statue of Paul Revere, Boston Common, Harvard University, or the Freedom Trail. When the day is done, return to a cozy, comfortable room at The Westin Copley Place, Boston, not far from Boston's famous shopping district on Newbury Street.
