The best summer trips in the US include modern cities, lush valleys, and quaint towns, as well as a couple of resort towns over the border.
August and September are usually when most destinations bid farewell to the summer crowds, so you’ll enjoy shorter lines at famous landmarks.
Weather conditions at the end of summer vary greatly, depending on where you are in North America. The good thing is that many of the cities and towns on our list have excellent indoor activities for all ages.
You can still enjoy plenty of time in the great outdoors, whether that’s sunbathing on the beach, hiking and camping in national parks, or boating on pristine lakes. Want to catch the last of the summer sun? Plan a trip to our recommended destinations below.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is one of the most family-friendly cities in the US, thanks to world-renowned theme parks at Walt Disney Resort and Universal Orlando. Visiting in late summer usually means smaller crowds and shorter lines for rides. The weather can get rather cloudy, so we recommend carrying an umbrella or raincoat whenever you’re outside.
There are plenty of fun things to do in Orlando besides its amusement parks. You can enjoy go-karting and arcade games at Andretti Indoor Karting and Games Marietta, or indoor skydiving at iFLY Orlando. If you prefer a leisurely day near Orlando, check out the Kennedy Space Centre. This fully operational NASA launch centre hosts the original Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Astronaut Hall of Fame, a 3D IMAX theatre, and a launch simulator.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is fun year-round, though it can get rather scorching if you’re visiting in late summer. The city has plenty of indoor entertainment for all ages, particularly focused around The Strip. This iconic stretch of South Las Vegas Boulevard is packed with luxurious resorts, casinos, theatres, bars, and nightclubs.
Families can spend hours exploring the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, Madame Tussauds Las Vegas, Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and Ethel M Chocolates Factory. Adventuredome at Circus Circus Las Vegas offers indoor roller coasters, clown shows, classic rides, and 4D theatres. Head over to the Freemont Street Experience at dusk to enjoy Viva Vision’s dazzling audio-visual displays, which last 6 minutes.
New York City, New York
A late-summer holiday in New York City usually means plenty of cultural celebrations and Broadway shows. Some of the most popular events in the city include Shakespeare in the Park, Hispanic Heritage Month, and the Armoury Show. Alternatively, you can head to the Theatre District to enjoy a wide range of performances, from Broadway and stand-up comedy shows to ballet and classical music concerts.
Museums in New York are filled with interesting displays and activities for all ages. Must-visits include the American Museum of Natural History, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Whitney Museum of Art. Lastly, end the day with a drink at the city’s rooftop bars, where you can enjoy a nice breeze and spectacular views.
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Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu gets very lively between August and September when the island hosts several festivals dedicated to the local heritage, food, and music. Aloha Festival is a month-long event that includes fun parades, local cuisine, and Hawaii’s largest street party.
Even without the festivals, Oahu has plenty of things to do in late summer. It’s quite cool throughout the day, so you can enjoy many outdoor activities without breaking a sweat. Hiking is a great activity, thanks to scenic routes like Diamond Head, Kuliouou Ridge Trail, and Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail.
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Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is one of the best cities for a late summer trip in the US. Temperatures in August and September are mild enough to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. There’s also plenty of free concerts and art exhibitions to enjoy throughout your holiday, including Grant Park Music Festival and Chicago Blues Festival.
Millennium Park features playgrounds, a splash park, and walking paths, along with futuristic sights like the iconic Cloud Gate and Crown Fountain sculptures. You can enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Chicago River or stroll the 18.5-mile-long Chicago Lakefront Trail. There’s also plenty of greenery to explore in Chicago, such as Lurie Garden, Maggie Daley Park, and Grant Park.
Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley is busiest during late summer, as the region’s harvest season lasts from August to October. It’s a great time to visit quaint towns like Angwin and Calistoga – both have excellent wineries, historic buildings, and nature trails. However, we highly recommend booking your hotel, wine tastings, and tours well in advance.
You can hop on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a scenic ride through Wine Country’s gorgeous countryside, lush vineyards, and rolling hills. If you want to escape the crowd, head northeast of Napa Valley to Lake Berryessa. This 20,700-acre lake/reservoir has 2 marinas and 3 recreation areas that rent out kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
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