Summer crowds can be an issue anywhere. But you will find some amazing best places to explore in July in the US. If you’re smart enough. The temperate rainforests, the stunning beaches, the wonderful city breaks, and the seaside accommodation are just some of the possibilities. Here are 20 of the best places to visit in July in the US to get started!
Portland Oregon – Summer Visit to the City’s Prosperous Outdoor Culture
Portland is one of my favorite best places on the planet. The perfect example of brilliant things that come in small packages. As for the US, cities are quite compact. But they are full of unusual things and innovative, creative people. From the city mayor down. It all has to do with sustainability and low impact life. Which means the city is buzzing with a cool, relaxed atmosphere. That you can enjoy to the fullest in July. The roses are in full bloom when the weather is warm and the fun moves outdoors!
Normal circumstances
Under normal circumstances, the city is filled with festivities from July 4 onwards. Starting with the impressive Waterfront Blues Festival, the Craft Beer Festival. The Oregon County Fair, and Edgefield Concerts on The Lawn, among others. My favorite is The Big Float, where everyone picks up their favorite float. Jumps into the Willamette River, and heads to a beach party by the Hawthorne Bridge.
I have not even scratched the surface here. Check out the city’s website for full details of all the amazing festivals. Even without festivals, Portland is full of life. Head to Hawthorne Avenue for Vintage Shopping, independent boutiques, local dinners, or hit a food truck pod.
If you feel outdoors, the city is surrounded by beauty, head to the Willamette Valley Wineries for the great countryside or one of the many stunning waterfalls in the area. For older travelers, movie buffs will love to visit Haystack Rock, made famous by the Spielberg Classic ‘The Goonies’, about 80 miles south of 101 near Cannon Beach. Honestly, anyone who enjoys cool and quirky locations will not be disappointed with a summer visit to the city of roses!
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Finger Lakes, NY – Combine Wine and Waterfalls for a Great Summer Break
I’ve always loved a legend, and the one behind the Finger Lakes in west-central New York is no exception. People say that the beautiful area, where the lakes stretch out like the fingers of two hands, was formed. When the great spirit left his palm to bless the earth. Now the area is in the process of campaigning to become a National Park. So it should be as the unique and picturesque landscape hosts plenty of flora and fauna!
The first wine region in the USA was founded here in 1983 and is still going strong. One of the favorite activities in the region is a tour of the wine trails of Lake Cayuga, where you can try some of the best locally produced Riesling.
Biggest attraction
But perhaps the biggest attraction is the beautiful water landscape characterized by hundreds of stunning waterfalls that fall between beautiful forest stairs from over 150 feet. From the impressive Taughannock Waterfalls that sink from 215 feet, the tallest unique waterfall to the east of the rocks. The slightly smaller Buttermilk Falls and Enfield Falls are among the few you can swim in!
Much of the Waterfall activity focuses on the shores of Lake Cayuga and the picturesque town of Ithaca, home of Cornell University. Ithaca is what one would expect from an Ivy League city, full of stunning historic buildings with brownstone, leafy boulevards, and beautiful parks and gardens that will bloom in July, basically the perfect base to explore this wonderful area.
Bar Harbor, Maine – one of the best places to visit in July in the USA
Bar Harbor is a picturesque town on Mount Desert Island. Its coastline is located along the French Gulf at the beautiful Acadia National Park gate. Historically, the city was a summer haven for the rich and famous who competed with Rhode Island until 1947, when much of it was destroyed by catastrophic fires.
Some of the old buildings survived. However, the main road that slides sweetly towards the port is colorful wooden shops and charming flower baskets. Fortunately, the city center is happy without chain stores. On the contrary, you will find independent companies selling local technical gifts and products with the idyllic setting of Frenchman’s Bay. Food lovers will find plenty to celebrate here — there are plenty of top spots to dine and eat in the countryside at one of the harbor restaurants. Wine lovers can get their solution at Bar Harbor Cellars Winery, located on the lovely Sweet Pea Farm.
For nature lovers, there are wonderful nature cruises that regularly sail from Bar Harbor and offer the opportunity to spot seals, seals, eagles, and other marine life, as well as elegant mansions and the picturesque lighthouse at Egg Rock. Last but not least is the perfect best places to explore the magnificent Acadia National Park, which spans 47,000 acres of rugged Atlantic coastline, dotted with dense forests, rocky beaches, and granite peaks such as Cadillac Mountain, the highest point of the East Coast.
Olympic National Park, Washington – Stunning scenery and great summer outdoor activities
The Olympic National Park is located inside the Olympic Peninsula northwest of the Pacific. The Park that stretches north to the Canadian border is unique, as it includes over 900,000 acres and three specific ecosystems. Temperate rainforests, icy mountains, and wild Pacific coastline. Much of the Park is designated as a wilderness, and the entire Park is considered a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. In July, you will find the Park lush and green, colorful meadows with wildflowers, lush rainforests, and stunning coastal hiking.
Due to its varied landscapes, the weather in the Park can be unpredictable. However, in July, you have almost guaranteed warm and pleasant temperatures making it a great time for wildlife, hiking, and water sports. Exploring the network of lakes, rivers, and coastline by boat, kayak or canoe can be exciting! In summer, there is also the opportunity for cycling and stargazing at Hurricane Ridge. If you have only a short time there, I recommend booking at the beautiful Lake Quinault Lodge, a beautiful rustic lodge built in the 1920s on the shores of the Lake at the edge of the stunning Olympic National Forest.
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It is ideal for relaxing and unwinding away from the urban stresses and exploring the beautiful greenery, waterfalls, and tree trunks covered with moss-covered by temperate rainforest. It is also a best places to sit out on the deck, watch the sunrise. Over the beautiful glacially carved Lake Quinault. Maybe catch an Osprey or two to have breakfast early. The Park is huge with a rich Native American history, and eight tribes continue to recognize their traditions within its boundaries. Take some time to visit this amazing National Park; you will not regret it!
Yachats, Oregon – the small and attractive coastal town is a great best places to visit in July
The moment I set foot on Yachats, I liked it; the charming little ribbon of the shops just outside 101 completely surprised us, which means that to stop for a very fast leg extension, we ended up wiping for hours chatting with friends, locals, and read the graphic small independent businesses that are the backbone of the community.
Perched next to Cape Perpetua on a pristine stretch of Oregon Rugged Coast, the Yachats is truly remarkable as the Yachats are still a relatively hidden gem. You will find tidal pools, black basalt cliffs, fern gulls, and beautiful lighthouses, all amidst the sound of crashing ocean waves. Aside from its perfect location, it’s the people who give it that particular advantage. It’s like Portland Spirit meeting Northern California and creating a perfect baby! Do not be fooled by its small size. Yachats are all hearty! Someone with real passion runs every business in the city center, take, for example, the social hub Bread And Roses Bakery,
Ken Kesey reportedly wrote “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” while staying at the Drift Inn, which is still flourishing all these years later and creating a hub for the city’s live music scene. All the shopkeepers we spoke to were happy to tell us about the amazing community events happening here, from ClamBakes on the beach to the weekly farmers’ summer market. I did not want to leave, and I’m sure you will not either if you go!
Geneva-on-Lake, Ohio-Old-Fashioned Summer Vacation Fun
Founded around 1869, Geneva-On-Lake is a picturesque small family-friendly holiday destination located in Geneva State Park on the shores of Lake Erie. GIRL is a best places for an old-fashioned vacation, where guests can enjoy everything you get in a Pontins but elevated by the stunning surroundings.
You can enjoy the July sun on one of the beautiful lakeside beaches, charter a boat, or experiment with any number of water sports from the marina. Try skydiving with sky bridges, zippers, and adventure rope lessons for a thrill. Take a leisurely tour of the local breweries and vineyards on a nearby tour of vineyards and wines, play a round of golf or eat a fresco while watching a beautiful sunset.
Browse some of the cute little local shops, take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Lake, or take a walk on the trails for a little bird watching. There are plenty of mini-golf courses and playgrounds to keep kids happy as well.
Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota – a beautiful place to visit in July
This amazing Park is located between northern Minnesota and Canada and consists of acres and acres of interconnected lakes and waterways. The largest landmass in the Park is the Kabetogama Peninsula, which is completely within its borders.
Otherwise, it is all about the water, with many of the most beautiful best places only accessible by boat. East of the Park is the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness, a stunning collection of forests, glacier lakes, and streams that attract millions of nature-loving visitors each year. Amazing views distinguish over 50 miles of trails on the peninsula, but you can only reach them by boat, so an integral part of planning a trip to travelers is your ideal art. Canoes, motorboats, and kayaks are available for rent, and if you are nervous on the water, there are also organized cruises and buses to take guests to their chosen destinations.
If you’re a water lover, you may want to stay on a boat for a truly quirky and unusual accommodation alternative. There is a shelter in the Park, the historic Kettle Falls Hotel: Built in 1913 and renovated in the 1980s, it is close to stunning waterfalls and is a great place to dine on a summer evening overlooking the water wilderness. The sunset followed by the stunning night sky. Consisting of four large lakes, many waterways, and hundreds of islands, the Park is the perfect haven for outdoor explorers and one of the unique National Parks in the United States.
Boston – for impressive July 4 celebrations
The historic city of Boston is an amazing best places to visit. July is extremely special as it hosts the amazing Summer Pops concerts and the amazing July 4 fireworks over the Charles River. All of this is directly related to Harbor fest, a week-long celebration of the city’s unique maritime history that begins on Independence Day.
Things will be upset this year, but I think that means that 2022 will be even more wonderful! Despite the current conditions, a lot is still happening in this beautiful city, and a visit in July means that you will be able to do it all with the wonderful sun. You can relax on one of the amazing beaches of the city, have a picnic and a bottle of wine and enjoy Shakespeare in public or have a smaller concert and discover something new.
Boston is full of beautiful parks and a lovely square, making it ideal for romantic summer walks, perhaps followed by an outdoor movie under the stars? Of course, there is also the wonderful beer, food, and craft scene, which is even more enjoyable when frescoes and port cruises, whale watching, and stunning old and new architecture. There’s one reason Boston tops the city-break list for so many people, why not add it to your own?
Half Moon Bay – visit in July for sun, sea, and sand.
Located 28 miles south of San Francisco is the picturesque coastal town of Half Moon Bay. A great place to spend a summer weekend or use as a base to explore the coasts of Northern California. Good things come in small packages, and Half Moon Bay is no exception. Its compact downtown area consists of attractive sandy windows with boutique fairs, from unique arts and crafts to delicious wine and some fantastic restaurants!
No visit is complete without stopping at Sam’s Chowder House for absolutely fresh, sustainable seafood with stunning views of the Pacific and is the perfect place to spot migrating whales. For a quirky dining experience, Daddy’s is perfect, based on an old railroad car serving delicious comfort food to keep you going. During the day. Half Moon Bay is surrounded by protected parks and beaches, including the Mavericks, a famous section of the coastline hosts a world-renowned annual surfing competition.
Other protected beaches, such as poplars, are great places to picnic at sunset. The best thing is that these beaches are not as crowded as some neighboring areas. Half Moon Bay maintains a calm and relaxed coastal atmosphere even during the peak summer months. Do not miss some nature spots in the Fitzgerald Marine Protected Area and visit the historic Moss Beach Forbidden Distillery while you are there. To learn more about the city’s interesting history, visit the museum at the Old Prison. Many things will keep you busy in this picturesque little town, do not forget your surfboard!
Buffalo River Arkansas – the first national river in the USA
The protected Buffalo River flows for 153 miles without interruption from dams or any other type of human intervention. Starting in the Boston Mountains, ending in the Ozarks, and ending in the New York Buffalo, the most beautiful area is the Upper Buffalo Desert around Ozark St Francis, Arkansas. Lovers of outdoor events are covered as 100 miles of trails cross the river.
The Hawksbill Crag is the only hiking trail that runs through the wilderness and offers stunning views under the steep bluffs formed by the swirling river gorge. Here you will be treated to beautiful oak forests and honeycombs, ancient caves, waterfalls, and a plethora of wildlife, including a herd of over 500 free breeds. The river sees many changes along its course, from rushing waters to tranquil pools, and a great way to explore it is by canoe or kayak. Many local companies provide boat rental and fees if required.
There is plenty for history buffs, including the eerie Rush Ghost Town and the even more creepy Peppersauce Ghost Town in Calico Rock, both of which are historic sites with a long history!
Traverse City, Lake Michigan – Cool vibrations and unspoiled beaches make this a great July destination
With a 307-mile shoreline, choosing a place to stay on Lake Michigan can be daunting. I recommend Traverse City in northern Michigan. It is a great base for exploring some of the most beautiful beaches and nature reserves along the lakeshore and is a completely cool and vibrant city in itself.
The city offers amazing boutique shopping, microbreweries, food carts, gastronomic pubs, and good food, as well as a wealth of public works of art and amazing urban hiking/cycling/boating trails, museums, and galleries. It is a great place for summer vacation as it is a short distance from many sandy beaches, including Clinch Park, just a few minutes from the city center. The Old Mission of Hersonissos, a short drive from the city center, has some beautiful water parks, enjoys peace on Hastert Beach, or has a picnic in Bryant Park, but be sure to leave room for ice cream. From Barton’s Wonder Freeze!
To truly escape the wilderness, take a stroll along with the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake, a stunning area of protected dunes and beaches, including the protected North Bar Lake, an ideal best place for swimming! For a romantic sunset, Good Harbor Beach is unbeatable. From this secluded sand, you can watch the sunset behind the Manitou Islands and paint the calm water in rich red and orange shades. Get a bottle of wine and a blanket and enjoy the beauty of the second largest Lake.
Cannon Beach – an iconic beach and lovely outdoors
Cannon Beach is a small coastal town against the backdrop of the stunning wildlife of Oregon. The sweeping beach is located opposite cliffs and right on the sea is the dramatic Haystack Rock, a towering rocky expanse immortalized in The Goonies when the pirate ship appears from behind in the last scene of the film.
The beach has also been used at Point Break and Twilight more recently. As the wooded cape rises behind the beach and the sand spreads in a rough arc in front of you, it is easy to understand why National Geographic included Cannon Beach in its 2013 list of the most beautiful best places in the world! Just north is Ecola State Park, which spans nine miles of coastline and includes the storm buffet lighthouse at Tillamook Head. Many wonderful hiking trails in this area offer amazing opportunities to spot birds and wildlife.
You will find tidal pools full of strange and remarkable creatures, Murres, Puffins, and Bald Eagles nesting on the rocks, and Roosevelt Elk wandering in the woods. Seals and seals can often be seen smiling in the sand, and as you look out into the vast ocean, you can even see beautiful gray whales spewing fog over them. A real point of beauty and still hidden ornament.
Beavers Bend Resort Park, Oklahoma – Summer Outdoor Fun
This beautiful 1,300-acre resort park is located next to Broken Bow Lake in Southeast Oklahoma and follows the banks of the Mountain Fork River through stunning forests and cascading rapids. There are many activities on offer within the Park, including an elaborate range of firefighting, nature trekking, and art and craft classes, not to mention 12 miles of hiking trails and ropeways along the lakeside and river.
If you like the view from the water, you can upload a Yamane, Kayak, or paddle boat. There is a steam train, a golf course, a visitor center, and numerous beautiful wooden cabins to stay in the stunning mountain terrain. Do not miss the sunset over the impressive Broken Bow Dam. Overall, a great best places to escape into nature for a long weekend as part of a bigger adventure!
Seattle – pop and rock culture without rain
Seattle gets a bad rap for the weather. So you need to think about what is most important to you. If you plan a visit. June, July, and August have the best weather. Which means you can enjoy all the wonderful outdoor adventures on offer in and around the city. However, it is also the busiest and most expensive season. If you go out during the summer months, you are at the mercy of the extremely rainy microclimate of the city. The low temperatures, so you must be prepared. As a grunge fan of the ’90s and a fan of the movie’ Singles,. I was always obsessed with Seattle. When I finally got to visit, it did not disappoint me!
It is such a cool and quirky city with a stunningly relaxed atmosphere that effortlessly combines innovation and history at every turn! For artistic Bohemia, head to Fremont’s unique neighborhood, famous for its relaxed cafes, independent shops, and public sculptures. Especially the monstrous 18-meter Fremont Troll under the George Washington Memorial Bridge. Music lovers should take Monorail downtown and visit the EMP, an amazing interactive museum that celebrates the famous Seattle Sound and everything that inspired and supported it. While there, you can take some photos of the iconic Space Needle, the jewel of the Seattle skyline. Continue with a night out on the famous Crocodile.
Famous Pike Place
Another must-see is the famous Pike Place Market. Where you can get everything from flying fish to Wiccan treatments. As well as eating some of the most delicious food you will ever find. Highly recommend Caesar salmon salad at Lowell’s, unforgettable. Browse antiques, see vinyl on cow records, have a coffee at the early Starbucks. Then stroll along the river and check out the boats. To continue the avenue of pop culture, you will also find Jimi Hendrix’s tomb in Greenwood Memorial Park. For a day trip, I suggest you take the Snoqualmie Waterfalls, the impressive waterfalls featured in the Twin Peaks titles. Honestly, Seattle needs its best places; it overflows with green spaces, innovative architecture, culture, and museums, and I have hardly carved the surface here Go! You will not regret it!
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming – a wonderful national park to visit in the summer
Set in the stunning Teton Mountains in Northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park. Offers stunning scenery, alpine lakes, and many trails! Probably one of the most photographed areas of the Park in Jackson. Hole, home to the iconic historic Mormon Row area. Where wooden barns and dilapidated farmhouses return to the early Mormon settlement.
Located in the Antelope Apartments, the area offers stunning views of the Teton Mountains that rise protectively around the plateau. Water lovers can take a boat trip on Lake Jenny or Lake Jackson, Mass. The more adventurous types can enjoy rafting on the rapids of the Snake River. Or take an icy swim in the String Lake. The 100-mile John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway is the perfect challenge for the thrill rider. And enjoys some of the Park’s finest wildlife and scenery.
As you would expect, there are plenty of trails to choose from
One of the best goes up a mountain trail along with Lake Jenny via the stunning Hidden Falls. And Imagination Overlook, and another takes you to the sickly Death Canyon. Climbing enthusiasts can experience the Grand Teton itself. The highest peak in the 40-mile Teton Mountains. One of the most important experiences you should have in the Park. So watch at least one spectacular sunset.
Lake Chelan, Washington – A Quiet and Picturesque Place to Take a Break in July
Beautiful Lake Chelan is located between Seattle and Spokane and is a popular summer town for both cities. The Lake stretches 50.5 miles through a lush forest landscape and includes many protected areas. Wenatchee National Forest, Twenty Five Mile Creek State Park, and Lake Chelan State Park are all along its shores. Its northernmost point provide a gateway to the stunning wilderness of Northern Cascades National Park.
During the summer. It provides the ideal best places to experiment with various water sports, hang out on beautiful beaches. Hike on impressive lakeside trails, and enjoy local amenities at the Evening Farmers Market.
Glacier National Park, Montana – perfect for nature lovers
The stunning scenery sparkles with color, and thrill-seekers in July will find the Middle Fork. Whitewater at its best, with water levels ideal for a thrilling raft ride! The Flowers are in full bloom, and from the middle of July, the hackers are out in their sweetest!
In July, all the trails and roads are open, and it is the perfect time for a route along. The picturesque Going-To-The-Sun-Road. A historic landmark of civil engineering. The Sun Road was built in the 1930s to extend the width of the Park from east to west. Not for the faint of heart, it passes through the Park in a series of hairpin turns. That fall dramatically in best places.
St Mary’s Valley
Offer unrivaled views of St Mary’s Valley and Going-To-The-Sun-Mountain. The top of the mountain looks like a face looking up in profile at the sky. That the ancient Blackfeet tribe believed belonged to the Spirits, who, after descending to teach. The tribe how to hunt, left it as inspiration before returning to the sun.
There are miles of hiking trails that cross the Park and a plethora of wildlife to see. Including rare werewolves and Canadian lynx. As well as black bears, grizzlies, and mountain lions!. Although July is usually warm and temperate, be prepare for any eventuality. As the weather can change by whim, and parts of the Park are incredibly remote! Also, get the bear spray and follow all the instructions of the Park to be safe!
Monterrey, California – July is a wonderful month to visit with the hottest temperatures and great outdoor dining.
I was very eager to see Monterrey as I am an avid fan of Steinbeck. Who was very attached to the best places that provided the setting for his three novels. Tortilla Flat, Sweet Thursday, and the most famous Cannery Row. The latter tells the stories of migrant workers.
Who rose in the area during the Great Depression. Hoping to make money fishing. The characters are inspire by real people he met during his time in the city.
Historic Cannery Row
The historic Cannery Row is now a big draw for the city of Monterrey. It has been fully restore, with red brick walls offering boutique hotels, independent shops. Many relaxing best places to try local seafood, enjoying the waves and ocean views. Also in The Row is a beautiful memorial statue of the author that honors him and his most famous characters.
In addition to Steinbeck, there is plenty to explore. Take a stroll through Monterey State Historical Park to see some of the area’s oldest. Most important buildings, including San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral, the oldest in California. For picturesque and colorful wooden buildings and stunning views of Old Fisherman’s Wharf Bay.
Many outdoor quests are available nearby, with great surfing. Wildlife along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail and the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. It is worth noting that everything on the Monterey Peninsula is quite close. So, It is easy to go out and explore the luxurious Carmel-by-the-Sea. The famous Big Sur while relying on this artistic and vibrant city.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington – Blooming wildflowers and mountain magic
Mount Rainier National Park spans 369 square miles of incredible scenery around the majestic 14,411-foot stratified volcano in its center. The foothills are a fantastic mix of alpine meadows, valleys, and waterfalls collapsing from rocky plateaus. From July to August, the wildflowers transform the Park’s Paradise area in the abundance of colors. And the warmer temperatures make it the perfect season for hiking.
There are many trails to explore according to your tastes. Whether it is wildlife, unobstructed views, or rapids. Peace seekers can enjoy the tranquility of The Spray Park trail, which includes the stunning views of Spray Falls. Eagle Cliff and tends to be quieter than some of its neighbors.
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Stunning Skyline Trail
If you like heights, take in the stunning Skyline Trail for close-up views of Nisqually Glacier and Mount Rainier itself. Hard-core hikers can try the 93-mile Wonderland Trail that encircles the mountain. And offers the ultimate best view the Park has to offer; 10 days is the recommended time to try it out.
There are many smaller accessible trails for those who are more sedentary. Silver Falls and Sourdough Ridge are great choices, as are the scenic Myrtle Falls. If you want a view without afoot, why not take a gondola ride on Crystal Mountain. Drive the White Pass and Chinook Scenic Byways.
If you’re looking for a more spiritual experience, head to Sunrise Point. Where the facilities are open to stars, and wake up early. It is the perfect best places to see all the splendor of the night sky and, as the name suggests. It is also a great best places to watch the sunrise.
Grand Lake, Colorado – Colorado’s largest and deepest natural Lake is a beautiful best places to explore in July.
The historic mountain town of Grand Lake Colorado is a breathtaking location on the shores of Grand Lake. It is consider the gateway to The Rocky Mountains National Park. It is a truly amazing best places to enjoy all kinds of summer water sports. You will immediately notice on arrival peaceful sailboats, paddleboards, and kayaks floating abundantly in the water. Framed by the backdrop of stunning snowy cliffs.
Suppose you plan to hit the National Park for some serious hiking and climbing. In that case it is wise to spend a few days initially acclimatizing to the altitude. Maybe doing it somewhere beautiful like Grand Lake. The historic pedestrian street is full of picturesque little wooden-clad front shops to see souvenirs, art boutiques, and holiday clothes. Food lovers would love to try the local Rocky Mountain Oysters at Sagebrush BBQ. Head straight to the World’s End Brewpub. Worth a visit to the historic Grand Lake Lodge. For a special dinner or a typical cocktail on the hot deck overlooking the water.