Looking to visit somewhere new this summer? I’m sharing 10 epic destinations right here in the United States to add to your 2023 summer destination bucket list.
Once winter begins to fade away, I always start thinking about my spring and summer adventure plans! Who says you have to travel to the other side of the world?! There are plenty of destinations in the United States to explore in the summer from the cities to the beaches to the mountains.
The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys is undoubtedly one of the most gorgeous places in all of the United States. Hundreds of islands (also known as “keys”) span miles off the coast of Southern Florida. Over a dozen are connected by bridges. Many people travel down to the area to visit the popular islands like Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West. Others road trip across the keys via the Overseas Highway. Florida is the perfect place in the summer for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, snorkeling, and more! There are also three beautiful National Parks – Dry Tortugas, Biscayne, and Everglades – that surround the keys and are must-see stops for those adventure enthusiasts.
San Francisco
San Francisco, California has become one of my favorite cities in the world. This technology hub is full of award-winning restaurants, iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, and picturesque neighborhoods. Explore Alcatraz – the infamous island prison, watch the sea lions on Pier 39, and take in the view of the entire city from Twin Peaks. A visit to San Francisco can also be a gateway to exploring more of the Pacific Coast. Head north towards Sausalito, Muir Beach, and Napa, or head South towards Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz. If you’re up for it and you have the time, I also highly recommend driving the entire Pacific Coast Highway all the way to Southern California.
Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is full of breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences. Sitting on the eastern side of Mount Desert Island in Maine, this quaint coastal town is the full New England summer experience. Explore the streets of Bar Harbor where small shops are selling local goods. Indulge in the plethora of fresh seafood or set your sights on Acadia National Park – just minutes from downtown. Spend your time relaxing on the beaches or get out on the trails to reach the summits. Grab a permit and drive up to the summit of Cadillac Mountain to be one of the first to see the sunrise in the United States!
Albuquerque
No summer bucket list is complete without a trip to the Southwest. With a mix of historic architecture and modern design, Albuquerque, New Mexico is a perfect place to start. As one the oldest cities in the United States, visitors have the opportunity to dive deep into the Native American and Hispanic & Latino culture while indulging in the authentic cuisine, walking through the local boutiques and galleries, and or catching a performance at the theater. Outdoor lovers can go hiking, biking, or hop on a hot air balloon for a one-of-a-kind experience. I highly recommend visiting Petroglyph National Monument and riding the tram up to Sandia Peak for lunch or dinner.
Olympic Peninsula
The Pacific Northwest is one of places that everyone should get to visit at least once in their life. It truly has it all – cities, mountains, rainforests, beaches, and more. The Olympic Peninsula is located in the Northwestern corner of Washington and is a treasure in the summertime. You can hike along the mountain ridge, spot sea stars while tide-pooling at the beach, and have a delicious meal at a lakeside restaurant all in one day. Olympic National Park spans across most of the peninsula. Many people travel here to explore the park’s 920,000+ acres in the summer, but there is so much to see and do outside of the park.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe in the summer is a perfect getaway for any traveler. Whether you are exploring with your girlfriends, significant other, family, or embarking on a solo excursion, this picturesque destination offers both relaxation and adventure. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. Spend your days on the lake paddle boarding over the crystal clear turquoise water, in the mountains while hiking to the epic peaks and waterfalls, or taking in the views of the lake from above while sky diving. Then, stroll down the streets of any one of the towns surrounding the lake to shop, eat, and drink.
Chicago
When visiting Chicago, there are a few things you must do. Indulge in deep dish pizza, hop on board a river boat, see “The Bean,” and explore the Navy Pier. Head up to The Signature Lounge at the 96th for a drink and epic city view! Located along the southern coast of Lake Michigan, Chicago has been named one of the best cities in the United States. Once the weather gets warm, the city comes alive. Spend time relaxing on the beach, dine on the rooftops, and enjoy one of the many summer festivals.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous destinations in the United States and one of the most visited National Parks in the entire National Park System. The park is located on the eastern side of California, covering over 1,200 square miles of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. With mountains, waterfalls, alpine meadows, turquoise lakes, groves of giant sequoia trees… it’s hard not to fall in love with all that Yosemite has to offer. Summertime is one of the best times to visit to be able to experience the entire park.
Newport
Newport, Rhode Island is the definition of New England luxury. With massive mansions, small boutiques and galleries, waterfront dining, pristine beaches, and a lively marina showing off yachts of all sizes… you’ll find it’s hard to ever leave this charming city. Ocean Drive is one of the most stunning drives in New England as the road winds 10 miles along the coastline. While you’re here in the summer, make sure to experiences the 3 1/2 mile Cliff Walk, cruise around the harbor, and visit one of the many museums found around the city.
Cape Cod
As a Massachusetts Native, I may be biased when I say that Cape Cod in the summertime is easily one of the best destinations on this list… which is why I’m ending my 2023 Summer Destination Bucket List here. Fifteen different towns make up the “arm” of Massachusetts – also known as Cape Cod. From Chatham – a charming upbeat town full of busy shops and restaurants, to Wellfleet – a casual beach town will miles of rugged coastline, to the infamous Provincetown nestled on the tip of the peninsula… each stop will leave you feeling completely captivated. Indulge in the classic New England dishes like clam chowder, embark on an ocean excursion, and experience beach life along the Cape Cod National Seashore.
HAPPY EXPLORING!
Pin this guide to help you plan your 2023 Summer Destination Bucket List.
