Photo by Michael Deemer at Shutterstock
The end of the summer is the perfect time to tick off some of your travel bucket list goals by visiting a few August travel destinations. But there are so many unique places to visit in the US that it’s tough to narrow this list down.
And let’s be honest: This is a popular month for many folks to travel. Children are off school, and parents are planning their getaways. This means that many destinations get expensive and overcrowded.
But don’t worry! We rounded up a few spots for you to consider, including a few under-the-radar gems away from crowds and even some that put you in the heart of the action.
So take a look at 8 of our favorite August travel destinations, and get ready to make the most of this summer!
This August travel destination bursts with life during the summertime, with its walkable artsy downtown brimming with activities. For instance, WaterFire is the pinnacle of summer attractions, an extraordinary installation by local artist and Brown University graduate Barnaby Evans.
Emerging several times over the summer, with the main event in August, it draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Nearly 100 bonfires seem to float on Providence’s downtown rivers, creating a multisensory phenomenon.
The crackling fires, the calming melodies of curated music, and the bustling crowd enhance the marvel. Street performers and musicians even donate to the magical atmosphere. But the best part of this August travel destination?
This remarkable, mesmerizing experience is entirely free! To make this adventure even better, be sure to book a Venetian gondola, gliding close to the flames while enjoying the charming blend of fire, water, and music on the Providence and Woonasquatucket rivers.
Even though this next one isn’t in the US, we’d add it since it’s close enough, and the views are breathtaking! Banff’s warmest period is in August. So if you’re looking for the best time to visit, it’s probably this month…unless, of course, you prefer skiing!
August is the time when Banff is overflowing with nature and comes alive with flowers. Nights can still be a bit cold, though, around 45 degrees. So you might want to pack a jacket to wear for the evenings.
There are some fantastic views from the mountainsides in this August travel destination, and the visibility is outstanding since the air is relatively cloud-free. If you’re a fan of mountain biking, then this month is one of the best months to visit.
It’s safe to say that most of the hiking trails are good to go as well since most of the snow will have melted in most places. The one downside is that the peak season at this August travel destination is this portion of the summer.
So with school breaks and everyone getting their summer trips in, you’ll still see many people around the main sites.
When we’re talking about coastal vacations in the US in August, nothing beats the cool temperatures and refreshing ocean breeze of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Daytime temperatures hover at around 68 degrees, and you can get some fantastic deals for travel to the city, especially during the later part of the month. When can you expect to see and do at this August travel destination?
Some of the city’s most popular attractions include Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Golden Gate Park. August is also the ideal time for festivals in San Francisco.
This is when the Fremont Festival of the Arts, the Concord Jazz Festival, and the Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival take place.
Now’s your chance to experience a quintessential New Jersey summer in Asbury Park, the hometown of legendary musician Bruce Springsteen!
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Springsteen’s debut album, this shore town offers spectacular beaches, a newly restored boardwalk, unique boutiques, and gourmet eateries.
Just don’t forget to explore historical spots like The Osprey and Madam Marie’s “Temple of Knowledge.”
While at this August travel destination, you should also take advantage of the restored Paramount Theater and Convention Hall for some outstanding performances, experience the lively downtown scene, Zagat-rated restaurants, and visit The Stone Pony, Springsteen’s favorite spot.
Hot Springs is an exceptional destination to explore any time of the year. But we particularly love it in as an August travel destination because it hosts the much-awaited annual Fall River Hot Air Balloon Festival at the end of the month.
Watching more than 30 colorful and magnificent hot air balloons soaring through the sky creates a spectacular extravaganza that captures the hearts of visitors. But the festival isn’t the only highlight.
Travelers can revel in the delightful combination of mouthwatering cuisine, live music, and various activities suitable for the whole family. Beyond the festival, Hot Springs boasts many other attractions to enjoy.
The town’s historic architecture and colorful murals reveal its rich past and artistic spirit. Nature enthusiasts can indulge in the town’s natural hot springs, which provide a rejuvenating and relaxing experience.
And for those seeking a trace of history and adventure at this August travel destination, the Mammoth Site, and Wind Cave National Park offer fascinating insights into prehistoric life and complex, honeycomb box work formations.
The fudge capital of the world hosts a festival devoted to the confection at the end of August. It features fudge-inspired food and cocktails, fudge-making demos, outdoor movies, family games, and much more. So this is the perfect trip to take with the kiddos!
And you can counteract the sugar rush by kayaking or exploring some of the island’s many miles of hiking and biking trails.
While at this August travel destination, we recommend staying at the lakefront Mission Point Resort, which offers evening story time in the lobby, mini golf, and horse and carriage tours. 5 to 12-year-old kids can even participate in an evening kids’ club.
So you have a few child-free hours to relax and enjoy a romantic dinner or even a nap and some room service!
When most people think of Aspen, they associate it with skiing and snow. But Aspen is just as beautiful of a place to visit in August as it is in December. This iconic rocky mountain paradise is a hub for outdoor recreation.
And the best part is that temperatures only go as high as the mid-70s in August. So it’s the ideal time to explore this beautiful area of our country. The Aspen Music Festival takes place over the first couple of weeks of the month.
And popular attractions at this August travel destination include the John Denver Sanctuary, the Aspen Art Museum, Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, and the Baldwin Gallery.
August is the ideal time to visit Hamilton County, with many attractions and events to entertain visitors. One of our favorite highlights is the new Carmel Jazz Festival in the middle of the month.
This multistage event showcases exceptional jazz, blues, and R&B masters, offering music enthusiasts an immersive experience filled with rhythmic beats and soulful melodies.
Besides soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this August travel destination, visitors can also enjoy recreational activities surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
Spend an exciting day at Strawtown Koteewi Park to indulge in horseback riding, zip lining, or test your archery skills. The Monon Trail offers nature lovers a scenic trek from Sheridan through Westfield and Carmel to Indianapolis.
So make sure you bring a camera to capture the moments (if you don’t have one, Amazon is here for you)! We recommend taking a break in Carmel’s Midtown Plaza or the Carmel Arts and Design District, where you can explore restaurants, galleries, and local shops.
With over 90 local restaurants, Hamilton satisfies all culinary cravings!
Let us know in the comments if you’ve been to any of these August travel destinations. And don’t forget to share this post with your friends on Facebook!
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