Photo by M. Bradley at Shutterstock
Because of the couple of years we’ve had, we’re cautiously looking forward to traveling again. Dare we say, we might even end up at a few festivals or going abroad this summer.
We say that with blind hope, of course, but even if we don’t, there are still a bunch of exciting, new, and safe things to do right here in the land of the free!
Whether it’s about finding a perfect holiday spot among the calming national parks and stunning lush green valleys or simply walking your way through some adventure parks and choosing from the various rides, or it could even be about going to the beach for that perfect tan.
Our country is a place you’ll find everything you can think of and more! So, while planning for your next vacation getaway in this precious land, make sure you know about the best places to visit in the USA this summer for a vacation like never before!
Without a doubt, these 8 summer destinations are the most exciting to try in 2022!
You’ll find this summer destination on the banks of the famous Tennessee river at the base of the Smoky Mountains. This entire area has just the perfect kind of weather you wish for during summers.
It’s a big city with a small town heart that offers an ideal mix of outdoor adventure, history, fun places to visit, lots of urban amenities, restaurants, and museums.
The main attraction of this place is the Market Square, which has fountains you can go splashing in along with multiple restaurants and bakeries that serve up some unforgettable dishes. We recommend the Knoxville Museum of Art to catch the local artwork of the region.
Besides seeing the sights of this beautiful city, you can ride a trail all the way to Yellowstone! Biking took off during the pandemic and if you’re planning to keep up with the popular hobby post-COVID, put the Parks, Peaks, and Prairies trail on your summer bucket list.
The 1,287-mile trail connects Yellowstone National Park in Montana to Minneapolis, Minnesota, taking you through some of the most incredible landscapes the US has to offer.
Along the way, you’ll pass through Black Hills National Park, Badlands National Park, Devil’s Tower National Monument, and Mount Rushmore. The route on this summer destination is broken into three segments, between 380 and 510 miles long. So get your cycle ready!
If you’re in the mood for a good hike up to see some stunning landscapes during the evening time, then the best place to visit is definitely Mount Lemmon. You’ll easily find relaxing brooks at the base of this mountain to unwind after your hike.
Tucson is one of the most amazing summer destinations in America. Don’t forget to check out the renowned courtyard dining options here, where you can lounge with your loved ones despite the high temperatures during the daytime.
So, would this be the idea of a perfect evening for you?
…Speaking of mountains, check out: America’s National Parks: 10 Beautiful Adventures You Can’t Miss
Ok, there are probably many reasons to visit the city of angels. But for now, let’s leave Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Walk of Fame for another day because we have another reason for you to geek out!
After a few false beginnings, the Academy finally opened its museum doors in 2021. So pack your bags and head out towards your next summer destination!
The galleries at The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures fill a Streamline Moderne former department store with six stories of exhibitions and event spaces crowned by a panoramic rooftop terrace.
It even includes a tacked-on theatre in a massive Renzo Piano-designed orb. The chance to see Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard Of Oz or Jack’s corduroy jacket from The Shining is reason enough to visit.
Still, the opening exhibition is a beauty: a Hayao Miyazaki retrospective that includes images and production cels on display for the first time outside Studio Ghibli’s Japanese offices.
This summer destination is a small, picturesque, and historic town on Cape Cod Bay well-known for its oysters, art galleries, and much more. It’ll be a low-key vacation, away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
The dreamy and artsy town of Wellfleet has much more than you can even imagine! Activities include hopping on a kayak or windsurfing in the soothing bay waters. Trust us. It’s one of the most gorgeous areas to visit in the summer!
Biking and hiking are also on the roster of favorite activities in this summer destination. And in Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, you can explore the vibrant marine life! This is without a doubt one of the most picturesque places to visit in the warm season!
How would you like to walk from New York City to Canada on the Empire State Trail? It’s not for the indoor types, but adventurers will love this summer destination.
The state recently introduced the Empire State Trail. It’s a 750-mile, T-shaped trail that runs throughout New York state and connects its populous southern areas with the Canadian border. Pack up your camping gear and sleep a few nights under the stars if you’re outdoorsy!
The trail builds on a network of existing pathways and is open to hikers, bikers, and the adventurous.
It wanders through cities, small village main streets, rural communities, and other Hudson River Valley, Erie Canalway, and Adirondacks landscapes. As an added bonus, you can check out the MANY microbreweries along this summer destination!
Suppose you want something slightly different to do this summer, head towards the San Juan Islands. This archipelago has been getting more and more popular among backcountry enthusiasts and travelers alike, so you should get out there before it gets too overcrowded.
The opportunities for exploration are endless here. If you haven’t seen the old country vibes, been to the farmer’s markets, and witnessed the spectacular fireworks on the Fourth of July, then this is something you ought to do in this summer destination!
Despite being a busy place during the warm season, this area can be best explored on a bike, and you’ll surely feel the vibe of this place during the Bite Of Seattle food festival.
Are you a seafood fan? If so, THIS is the summer destination for you! You can choose to stay at a few beaches in the area like Dewey Beach, Bethany Beach, and Rehoboth beach.
With 30 miles of coastline, sports enthusiasts can indulge in kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, and surfing. But if you just want to spend your time relaxing, you can take a walk along the manicured walking trails and admire the scenery.
Visitors can attend diverse events throughout the summer, dine at great restaurants and explore the attractions. But certain attractions may be temporarily closed or require reservations in advance.
You can also add some exciting vibes to your summer destination by signing up for September’s annual Sandcastle Contest and taking a tour of the most ancient cottages in the area!
Our beautiful country is the kind of place where you can get it all. And while some parts offer a combo deal of everything in one place, others are exclusively made for soaking in the exquisite vibes, and you’ll get to relax and unwind.
Being a perfect country for road trips, make sure you don’t get lost and always keep a GPS or map handy for your next summer destination.
Although, you’re sure to find some friendly locals who will be there to help if you aren’t sure of which way to go. Whether going on a hike or chilling at a local restaurant, you just can’t miss out on this stunning country!
Let us know if you can think of some other unique summer destinations we should visit this year in the comments section!
And for some more great ideas for your next trip, we suggest you read: 11 Beautiful Places You Didn’t Know Were In Your State
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