Top 7 Summer Vacation Destinations In The U.S.

This article is from our print magazine issued April 1st 2022. To order a copy of the magazine please do so here.

Summer is just around the corner here in the Northern Hemisphere, and many people are keen to get back to traveling. The United States has so many alluring destinations, and it contains about every landscape, environment or biome imaginable.

From the sandy beaches on both coasts, multiple different mountain ranges, and over 400 national parks, it can be difficult to pinpoint where to explore next. But have no fear we’re here to offer 7 of the top summer destinations from across the U.S.

1. Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan is a remote town on Revillagigedo Island in the southernmost area of Alaska. It is only accessible by plane, ship or ferry, but it adds to its natural mystique and charm. The town is an arts and cultural hub in Alaska, and it boasts beautiful natural scenery.

Tour guide ships are a popular summer activity here that offer breathtaking views of the coastline and weaving fjords. Fishing is also popular in Ketchikan with many fishing guides in the area and many different species of fish like king salmon, halibut, cod and rockfish.

Off the water, the surrounding environment is a luscious rainforest with many hiking and biking trails close to the town like the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, Tongass National Forest and Potlatch Totem Park.

After your outdoors expeditions you can enjoy the quaint town that is home to local restaurants, theaters and museums.

2. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Down the coast is our next destination, Cannon Beach, Oregon. To some this place is instantly recognizable because of the towering rock formation just off the beach that is known as Haystack Rock.

This is where One-Eyed Willie hid all of his booty in the 1980s flick The Goonies, and where Patrick Swayze takes the surf ride of his life in the cult classic Point Break.

But this beach has been a top destination before the allure of Hollywood. The beach itself is 9 miles long scattered with historical lighthouses as it backs up to an ominous forest filled with life.

You can’t go wrong exploring the coastline, seeing the majestic waterfalls at Hug Point and checking out the views at Ecola State Park and Tolovana State Recreation Site. Not to mention it is easily accessible from Portland, and the drive is exceptionally beautiful down the 101.

3. San Diego, California

Yes, I might be pointing out the obvious, but how can I leave out the city with the best weather in the country?

Away from the bustle of the mega city Los Angeles, San Diego offers a lot of the same things on a slightly smaller scale. Now we all know that all beaches are not created equally where some have the best waves, some the best views, and some with the best people, but San Diego has a beach for every mood.

Head to Carlsbad for some family fun, Coronado for the luxury resorts, Del Mar for breathtaking sunsets, or Encinitas for waves and good vibes. Believe the San Diego hype. If you don’t get to see the ocean much and are looking for a solid beach getaway, look no further. San Diego has all the beaches, surfing and resorts of Los Angeles with less drama.

4. Glacier National Park, Montana

As you step out of the car and look around you can’t help but feel infinitely miniscule and powerless to the capacity of mother nature. It is truly breathtaking and one of North America’s best kept secrets. It seems to get lost in the shadow of Yellowstone and Yosemite.

With over 1 million acres of land to its name it’s home to a long list of wildlife including grizzlies, moose, mountain goats, wolves and wolverines. It also includes various ecosystems from prairies and tundras to mountain ranges and active glaciers.

But these words will never do its natural beauty justice. The only way is to go and see one of the most wild places left in this world.

5. Black Hills, South Dakota/Wyoming

Home to Mt. Rushmore and rising out of the prairie land of the midwest, the Black Hills represent hope from the lonely great plains. It is home to 5 national parks, 9 state parks, and rich native history that encompasses over 1 million acres of land.

The Black hills are a geological wonder that includes mountain ranges to explore, open grasslands to bask in and underground caverns to get lost in. Check out Custer State Park for its thundering buffalo heards, Badlands National park for its sharp mountain peaks and spires or Crazy Horse Memorial to put in perspective its historical importance.

6. Outer Banks, North Carolina

With over 100 miles of open beaches, Outer Banks is a great summer destination to avoid the crowds. The area contains no big cities and just a few villages and towns that are overflowing with culture and history.

The beaches offer great day trips, surf spots, world renowned fishing and tons of sightseeing locations. You can choose between luxurious rentals, less expensive hotels, or if you prefer roughing it, there are various choices for campgrounds and RV parks.

Sightseeing locations include The Lost Colony, Roanoke Island and The Wright Brothers National Monument. Outer Banks is an ideal destination for those looking for a mix between the outdoors and a luxury getaway.

7. Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor is located on Mt. Desert Island just off the coast of Maine that is also home to Acadia National Park. It’s a great summer destination featuring beaches, rugged sea cliffs, charming bed and breakfasts and of course all the delicious lobster you can eat.

Acadia National Park is easily accessible from Bar Harbor, and the summertime is great for hikes and bike rides ranging in difficulty. The park is interwoven with trails and carriage roads which makes it one of the easiest national parks to navigate.

Along with its natural landscapes, Bar Harbor is known for its dedication to the arts, sciences and academics that create a welcoming vibe to the area. Not to mention the long list of events that are held year round.

The United States Melting Pot

Like its people, the United State’s landscape is a geographical melting pot. From Pacific to Atlantic the environment is ever changing. There is much to see, learn and experience, and we hope that this list has inspired some unforgettable vacations that differ from the normal summer destinations. Stay safe, stay focused and stay traveling. Happy Travels.