10 best summer travel destinations across the US for 2026
- Larry Breeze
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
OCEAN CITY NJ WINS TOP 3 FOR TOP 10 BEST SUMMER TRAVEL DESTINATIONS IN THE US. STOP BY IKE'S FAMOUS CRABCAKES, OCEAN CITY'S BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT FOR 3 GENERATIONS.
Credit: USAToday.com
From coastal havens to inland retreats
Best Summer Travel Destination (2026)
May 20, 2026
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Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do throughout this country's millions of square miles, from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches.
An expert panel nominated their must-see places for a summer vacation, then readers voted to determine the winners. Here are the 10 best summer travel destinations for 2026.
Photo courtesy of Visit Bellevue Washington
Perched across Lake Washington from Seattle, Bellevue delivers big-city polish without the hustle and bustle. Summer brings warm, dry weather, perfect to enjoy waterfront beaches, boating, and scenic parks. Time your visit to attend the Bellevue Arts Festival (one of the country's top fine art festivals) followed by high-end shopping and al fresco dining at The Shops at the Bravern. Expect easy access to the Cascades for hiking and kayaking and exploring the area's 2,000-plus acres of parks. This is a Pacific Northwest summer done right.
Photo courtesy of Explore Branson
The Ozarks' entertainment capital goes well beyond its country music roots, though those are pretty spectacular, too. In summer, there are outdoor concerts and a signature, long-running outdoor drama at the legendary Shepherd of the Hills outdoor theater. Kids go for water park thrills at White Water and the whole family enjoys fishing and boating on Table Rock Lake. With everything from budget-friendly motels to lakefront resorts, Branson is a summer vacay crowd-pleaser.
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Photo courtesy of Visit Tybee Island
Tybee Island, Georgia, is a charming coastal destination offering a blend of summertime relaxation and adventure. Visitors can explore historic sites like Fort Pulaski National Monument and the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and dolphin tours. The island also hosts several events throughout the summer, including the Beach Bum Parade and a 4th of July celebration.
Photo courtesy of Troy A. Walsh
Spokane shines brightest in summer, when Riverfront Park, the legacy of the 1974 World's Fair, hosts outdoor concerts and festivals in addition to the 40-mile, paved Spokane River Centennial Trail and the SkyRide over the falls. The city's First Friday art walk, thriving farm-to-table dining scene, and proximity to both Coeur d'Alene Lake and the Channeled Scablands give travelers plenty of reasons to linger. Affordable compared to its western Washington neighbors, Spokane is a hidden gem.
Photo courtesy of Michael Gallitelli
Offering a rich blend of cultural events, outdoor activities, and historic charm, Saratoga Springs, New York, is a vibrant summer destination. Visitors can experience the thrill of thoroughbred horse racing at the renowned Saratoga Race Course, which hosts numerous high-stakes races throughout the season. In addition, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) presents a diverse lineup of performances, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy boating, white water rafting, and kayaking on Saratoga Lake and the Sacandaga River.
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Photo courtesy of Sean Pavone / iStock Via Getty Images Plus
Nestled at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park (the most-visited national park in the country), Gatlinburg is where mountain scenery meets mountain-sized fun. The area draws hikers, white-water rafters, and wildlife watchers to the Smokies, while the strip comes alive with taffy pulling, moonshine tastings, and the quirky charms of Ripley's Aquarium. Cabin rentals with hot tubs and porches are plentiful, making it easy to unplug without actually roughing it.
Photo courtesy of Nick Berard and Destination Madison
Flanked by lakes Mendota and Monona, Madison is a Big Ten college town that turns up the volume in summer with the incredible Dane County Farmers' Market, one of the largest producer-only markets in the country. There are outdoor concerts at the Memorial Union Terrace, and a craft beer and cheese scene that is outstanding in a state known for suds and dairy. Water sports, bike trails, and a spirited local food culture make Madison an underrated destination.
Photo courtesy of Ocean City Chamber of Commerce
This family-friendly vacation spot on the Jersey Shore is known for its exciting boardwalk, with shops and eateries galore, views of the Atlantic, plus vintage amusement parks. Playland’s Castaway Cove is one such park, with go-karts, thrill rides including roller coasters, a fun house, and mini golf. And if parks aren’t your thing, there are miles and miles of relaxing beaches for some sun and a refreshing dip.
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Photo courtesy of Visit Indy/Scott Crone
Indianapolis gets a serious case of summer fever, hosting world-class racing events and the uber-cool IndyFringe Festival. Beyond the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the city's revitalized Mass Ave and Fountain Square neighborhoods serve up a rotating cast of food festivals, live music, and artisan markets worth lingering over. With a compact, walkable downtown and a hotel scene ranging from boutique to grand, Indy consistently overdelivers for a city its size.
Photo courtesy of Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride in horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock.
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