10 Best U.S. Cities to Visit During Summer
Warm days are here, so pack your bags and top off your gas tank. It’s time to explore some of the best cities the United States has to offer. Plan your summer getaway with this list of must-see attractions and highlights.
This New England city is full of American history. Walk the Freedom Trail to see Paul Revere’s House, Old Ironsides, and the Old State House to hear the reading of the Declaration of Independence. Participate in the destruction of the tea at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. Enjoy the scenery at the Boston Public Garden and follow any of the numerous walking trails.
For Windy City Instagram moments, take a selfie at The Bean and Buckingham Fountain. Ride the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier and explore the lakefront, beaches and museums. Catch a show at the Chicago Theater, try something new at the Taste of Chicago, and tackle your fear of heights at the observatory in the John Hancock Building.
This vibrant coastal town features cobblestone streets and tempting shops and restaurants. Visit the oldest lighthouse and forts along the coast and take a ferry to the Islands of Casco Bay. Snap some pics during a whale-watching cruise or stroll along the scenic beaches.
This Pacific coast city has picturesque beaches and natural wonders, such as La Jolla Underwater Park with 6000 acres of marine life, Sunset Cliff’s Hidden Sea Cave, and Potato Chip Rock. Cross the bridge to Coronado Island for more beaches, parks and a spectacular view of the San Diego skyline.
The action is never ending in the Big Apple. Some classic activities include taking a ferry to Ellis Island to see the Statue of Liberty, riding to the top of the Empire State Building and visiting the 9/11 memorial. Head to the theater district to watch a Broadway show while you’re here. Check out the rides at Coney Island and take a walk in Central Park.
This unique, car-free island has over 70 miles of trails waiting to be explored. Take a step back in history when you view some of the Victorian houses, forts and museums. Visit Arch Rock, the most famous rock formation on the island, and sample some of the island’s world-famous fudge at many of the shops downtown. Enjoy a narrated horse-drawn carriage ride or rent a bike and pedal around the outer rim of the island.
This iconic city is home to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the American landmark Hollywood sign. Take a tour of Warner Bros. Studio to learn about filmmaking and see famous movie sets. Relax on one of the many beaches and ride the famous Ferris wheel at Santa Monica Beach.
The mile-high city boasts shopping, street art, restaurants and bars in downtown. Head to nearby Lookout Mountain to see Buffalo Bill’s grave and museum and enjoy views of the Rockies and the Great Plains. Within the city limits, you’ll find more than 200 parks and bike trails, but there are also 14,000 acres of parks in the foothills of the Rockies, including the only natural amphitheater in the world.
This Massachusetts peninsula has 40 miles of pristine beaches and lighthouses. Enjoy water activities, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, windsurfing, whale watching and seal watching. Explore bike paths and hiking trails through meadows and salt marshes and dine on fresh seafood while overlooking the ocean at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Travel to the U.S. capital to tour national monuments and memorials and view the Constitution, Declaration of Independence, and Bill of Rights at the National Archives. See where dollars are made at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and watch the changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery. Visit George Washington’s home, Mount Vernon, and see the fireworks on the National Mall. There are also 21 free museums of the Smithsonian.
These are some road trip worthy cities that you can add to your summer bucket list. The warmer weather brings outdoor activities, festivals and dining al fresco, enhancing your travel experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a hiker or a beachcomber, you’ll find something to enjoy this summer when you travel to one of these unforgettable U.S. destinations.