19 Amazing Places to Visit in July in the USA (+Summer Travel Tips)

Looking for the best places to visit in July in the USA? You’re in the right place!

After years of chasing summer adventures across the country, I’ve discovered that July is hands down one of my favorite months to explore the United States. It’s the pinnacle of summer travel – that sweet spot of approaching mid summer without the extreme heat of August, with extra long summer days and a ton of possibilities for adventures.

In this guide, I’m sharing 19 incredible places to visit in July in the USA, including mountain escapes, the midnight sun in Alaska, underrated New England coastal getaways and vibrant city experiences.

This list also includes underrated gems like Ely, Minnesota to iconic destinations like Yellowstone National Park.

These aren’t just random suggestions – they’re places I’ve personally explored, chosen specifically for what makes them special in July.

Let’s go!

A gem colored swimming hole in Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont

Why July is the Perfect Month for US Travel

July is peak summer travel season for good reason.

National parks have full road access and high elevation trails are free of snow, coastal destinations are warm and perfect for swimming, and mountain regions have comfy temperatures for hiking.

The month also coincides with Independence Day/the 4th of July, which gives you an opportunity to experience unique celebrations across the country that you won’t find any other time of year. Some of these include Boston’s historic 4th of July festivities to small town parades in the Adirondacks of Upstate New York.

And lets not forget the long daylight hours (up to 19+ hours in northern destinations like Alaska) to maximize your adventure time!

This is my favorite part about summer in the United States because you can see and do more in a shorter amount of time. This is especially nice when you have limited PTO but still want to get away.

19 Best Places to Visit in July in the USA

Here’s a list of my top destinations to visit in July in the USA, including hidden gems and bucket list US National Parks!

1. The Adirondacks, New York

Visit for: hiking, camping, kayaking mountain cabins

Sunset over Lake George in the Adirondacks in July

As someone who calls Upstate New York home, I might be a little biased, but the Adirondacks in July are truly exceptional.

The weather is warm but not usually unbearable, so its a great area to visit if you’re into hiking, camping and lake activities.

Visit Lake Placid for some of the area’s best 4th of July celebrations, the famous Lake Placid horse shows, farmers markets or to book a cozy mountain cabin. Or go to Lake George if you’re traveling with family or children and want easy access to a wide range of activities, shops, and museums.

For a quieter, more local experience, head to the Saranac Lake, Indian Lake, or Blue Mountain Lake areas.

The camping in the Adirondack Mountains is some of the best in the Northeast, especially if you can snag one of those coveted waterfront campsites.

Posts to plan your trip to the Adirondack Mountains: 

12 Best Hotels in Lake Placid | Memorable Overnight Stays

Top Things to Do in Lake Placid NY in the Summer

14 Best Things to Do in Lake George, NY | Activities & Attractions

• July specific advantages: Black fly season is usually pretty much over (thank goodness!), all hiking trails are accessible, and this is the best time to hike the Adirondack 46 High Peaks. Lake temperatures reach their warmest in July, making swimming actually enjoyable rather than just tolerable.
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• Planning tips: The best hotels and campsites book out far in advance, so try to secure accommodations 3-6 months in advance for July. Parking at popular trailheads fills up by 7 AM on weekends. Consider staying in cozy Adirondack cabins for the full mountain experience.

2. Olympic National Park, Washington

Visit for: hiking, rainforest, cool ocean breeze, rugged coastline

From the mossy Hoh Rainforest to the dramatic coastline at Rialto Beach, Olympic National Park has diversity you won’t find anywhere else – especially in July. This is kind of like a one-stop-shop if you want to see a bunch of different scenery on a single road trip.

Some of my favorite things to do in Olympic are: Hiking to Sol Duc Falls, driving up to Hurricane Ridge for mountain views, and wandering among the giant trees in the Quinault Rainforest.

The wildflowers are also in full bloom throughout the park at this time of year! They’re super beautiful (and fragile!), so always remember to stay on marked trails to avoid trampling them.

• July weather advantage: While it rains year round, this is the driest month in the Pacific Northwest. There’s typically no more snow on Hurricane Ridge, wildflowers are blooming, and all park roads are open for full access.
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• Planning tips: Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort books up quickly for July and, if you’re camping, you’ll want to reserve camping spots 5 months in advance. If you need something last minute, I recommend checking sites around the Staircase Area, which gets a lot less tourists than the north of the park.
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• How long to stay: Olympic National Park is huge (nearly 1 million acres) and you’ll need at least 3-4 days to see all of the highlights. 5-6 days is good to really dive into the hidden gems and longer hikes in the area. We found that the easiest way to see everything is with a campervan. We picked ours up in Seattle through RVshare!

3. Marquette, Michigan

Visit for: Kayaking, water sports, blueberries

Marquette is one of those hidden gems that locals want to keep secret. Situated on Lake Superior, July is the perfect time to enjoy the golden shores of McCarty’s Cove and all the lake activities you could want.

A lot of people visit for The Blueberry Festival in July, where you’ll find everything from blueberry pizza to blueberry beer – it’s quirky and fun in the best way possible.

For the best hiking, head straight to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and then check out the local food scene.

• July festival highlight: The Blueberry Festival typically runs mid-July and features over 50 vendors, live music, and blueberry themed everything. It’s become a beloved regional tradition that perfectly captures Upper Peninsula culture.
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• Lake Superior in July: Lake Superior is freezing all year round, but temperatures peak in July at about  60-65°F (chilly but swimmable for brave souls). The lake’s clarity reminds me of a very frigid Caribbean, with gem colored waters where you can often see 20+ feet down.

4. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Visit for: hiking, crystal clear water, water sports

Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters and mountain backdrop make it one of the most stunning destinations in the USA.

July is perfect weather for both water activities and mountain adventures, like sailing cruises on the lake, hiking to Eagle Lake and soaking in the sun at Sand Harbor Beach.

Lake Tahoe’s combination of outdoor adventures and cozy mountain lodges make it the perfect getaway for adventurous couples.

• July events: The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival runs July through August. If you’re into theater, you’ll love this festival that combines outdoor theater with the lake as backdrop. The Tahoe Rim Trail is in peak condition for hiking and mountain biking.
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• Weather perfection: Expect average highs of 78°F, minimal rain, and lake temperatures reaching 65-70°F. Snow is completely melted from high elevation trails.

5. Finger Lakes, New York

Visit for: wine tasting, waterfalls, kayaking, cute towns

Fox Run Vineyard on Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes Region is the Napa Valley of Upstate New York and makes some of the best cold weather wines in the country.

There are five lakes that make up the Finger Lakes region, but if this is your first time here then I recommend sticking around Seneca Lake and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

Seneca Lake has over 50 unique wineries and a lot of them have public tasting rooms where you can just pop in for a quick tasting. Three Brothers Wineries has multiple tasting rooms on one estate (first in the US to do this), and at Wagner Vineyards, John Pulos gave us an incredible tasting class where I learned more about Cabernet Franc in an hour than I knew existed.

Watkins Glen State Park is a must see while you’re in the area. This deep gorge is a geologically wonder, where you can walk behind waterfalls and climb through stone tunnels to reach Rainbow Falls.

Posts to help you plan your trip to the Finger Lakes:

Hotels around Seneca Lake

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Wineries on Seneca Lake Wine Trail (+ 3-Day Itinerary)

The 13 Most Beautiful State Parks in NY – From a Local

• Wine harvest timing: While harvest doesn’t begin until September, July is when vineyards look their most lush and green. Many wineries offer outdoor tastings and live music events specifically in July.
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• Chasing waterfalls: Spring rain and snowmelt keep waterfalls flowing strong through July, unlike late summer when some can dry up (like Taughannock Falls). Some noteworthy waterfalls nearby include Rainbow Falls in Watkins Glen, Buttermilk Falls, Taughannock Falls, and Hector Falls (accessible by this private boat tour)

6. Glacier National Park, Montana

Visit for: scenic drives, hiking, camping, wildlife

Driving Going-to-the-Sun Road on a campervan road trip through Glacier in early July

Glacier National Park in July is absolutely breathtaking and this is when Going-to-the-Sun Road is completely open, which gives you access to the park’s high elevation areas. This 50-mile mountain road is an engineering marvel and often considered one of the most scenic drives in America.

Drive this scenic route through snow capped peaks and turquoise alpine lakes. Along the way, hike to Hidden Lake Overlook for sunset (trust me on this one) or take a scenic float on the Flathead River.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, especially up in the mountains. Frequent sightings include grizzly bears, black bears, marmots, and mountain goats that roam the alpine meadows.

Posts to help you plan your trip to Glacier National Park:

5 Compelling Reasons to Take a Campervan Road Trip (+ Essential Tips to Know Before You Go)

15 Useful Apps to Download Before Your Next Road Trip (for Free!)

• Road access and permits: Going-to-the-Sun Road typically opens fully by early July after months of snow removal. You need a timed entry vehicle reservation if you enter from the west side of the park between 7AM and 3PM between June and end of September.
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• Wildlife: July is peak season for wildlife. You’re likely to see a lot of mountain goats and bighorn sheep up in the mountains, especially along Hidden Lake Overlook and Highline Trail. Black bears and grizzly’s frequent the area as well, so carry bear spray (and know how to use it) just in case. On our last visit, the park had closed part of the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail because a mama bear and her cubs were roaming about.
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7. Yellowstone National Park

Visit for: hiking, scenic drives, geothermal springs, wildlife

Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone

This list of best places to visit in the USA in July wouldn’t be complete without Yellowstone National Park.

Yes, July is Yellowstone’s busiest month, but there’s a reason for that! Temperatures are warmer and you’ll have full access to the roads, geothermal areas, and hiking trails. This means you can explore every corner of America’s first national park.

However, when I tell you to prepare for the crowds – I truly mean it! We visited in mid-July and could hardly find parking around the more popular attractions during the day.

But the good news is that Yellowstone is still filled with hidden gems and quieter corners of the park, such as Lamar Valley and West Thumb Geyser Basin and Norris Geyser Basin.

The only thing to keep an eye out for are closures due to summer storms and wildlife. Check the national park website before you go to stay up to date on current conditions.

Posts to help you plan your trip to Yellowstone National Park:

How to Spend 2 Days in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park Entrances: Which is Best?

Nearest Airports to Yellowstone National Park

• How long to stay: 2-3 days in Yellowstone gives you enough time to see the major highlights, including Old Faithful and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring.
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• Avoiding the crowds: Parking lots at popular attractions fill by 9 AM. Start your day at 6 AM for the best wildlife viewing and fewer crowds. Consider staying inside the park to minimize driving time.
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• Wildlife viewing: July is prime time for spotting bison, elk, bears, and wolves. The best place to see them are in Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley, especially during early morning and just before sunset. Use a long lens to photograph them (like a 100-500mm lens) to avoid getting too close. Stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves and at least 25 yards from other large animals like bison, elk, moose, and coyotes.

Bison might look heavy and slow, but they can actually run three times faster than humans!
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8. Bar Harbor, Maine

Visit for: hiking, cute towns, lobster, ocean views

A summer sunrise from Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park

Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island are the best places to visit in the USA in July for a mix of New England charm and outdoor adventure.

The combination of rocky coastline, charming architecture and ultra-fresh seafood creates that quintessential Maine summer experience.

My favorite things about summer in Acadia National Park are catching sunrise on Cadillac Mountain (you need a permit), walking the Shore Path for ocean views, and canoeing on Frenchman Bay.

Don’t leave without trying the legendary lobster rolls at Geddy’s or Rose Eden Lobster, which is right off the highway. Maine lobster is at its best in July when lobsters shed their shells and the meat is sweetest. This is also when you’ll find the most affordable prices and highest quality.

Here are all of your hotel options for Mount Desert Island

• Whale watching season: July is peak season for finback, minke, and humpback whales in the Gulf of Maine. Tours have 90%+ success rates during this month!
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• Peregrine nesting: Popular trails sometimes close in the summer for Peregrine falcon nesting. These are usually the Penobscot East Trail, Jordan Cliffs Trail, Precipice Trail and Valley Cove Trail.
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• Acadia specifics: All park roads are open and the Island Explorer shuttle runs frequently. Take the shuttle to avoid parking hassles at popular spots like Jordan Pond and Thunder Hole.

9. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

Visit for: kayaking, sea caves, camping, local art and culture

The Apostle Islands on Lake Superior are one of the most unique summer destinations in the Midwest USA.

July is the best time for kayaking the famous sea caves and exploring the 21 islands that make up this incredible archipelago.

Camping on remote islands makes you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, hiking trails at Frog Bay Tribal National Park give you stunning lake views, and boat cruises around the islands reveal hidden coves and dramatic cliffs.

Visit Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostles, for museums, art galleries, and a surprisingly vibrant local scene that most people never discover.

• Sea cave kayaking: Conditions on the water are calmest in July, which is best for paddling into the famous sandstone sea caves. Water levels are typically optimal and weather is most predictable.
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• Island camping: Several islands offer primitive camping accessible only by boat or kayak. Reservations are required and fill up months in advance for July dates.
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• Cultural events: Madeline Island hosts the Madeline Island Music Festival in July, featuring folk and acoustic performances in an intimate island setting.

10. Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1), California

Visit for: scenic drives, coastal towns, whale watching, wine tasting

A Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) road trip is at the top of most peoples’ bucket list.

Perfect weather, incredible coastal views, and endless adventures make this one of America’s best road trips in July.

Some experiences to add to your must-do list are surfing in Malibu, wine tasting in San Luis Obispo, whale watching in Monterey, and exploring the fairytale charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Clear skies and calm seas in July also create the ideal conditions for whale spotting. So keep an eye out – you might catch gray whales migrating north as you make your way along the coast.

• Whale migration: It’s common to spot blue whales and humpbacks off the California coast in July. Monterey Bay is particularly excellent for whale watching tours.
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• Driving conditions: July is the best time to road trip because coastal views are generally clear with minimal fog, especially compared to June’s frequent marine layer. Road conditions are optimal with no winter storm damage.
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• Wine country: Central Coast wineries are in full summer swing with outdoor tastings and events.

11. Boston, Massachusetts

Visit for: Festivals, outdoor dining, whale watching, harbor cruises

Go to Boston in July for summer city vibes at their finest. Temperatures hover around 80F, but there’s generally a nice breeze that keeps things comfortable, especially by the harbor. This makes the month of July perfect for exploring this historic city’s outdoor attractions.

Head to Harborfest for live music and waterfront activities or go kayaking on the Charles River with city skyline views. For something fun for a date night, rent a swan boat in the Public Garden and go dining waterfront in the Seaport District.

• 4th of July events: Boston’s Independence Day celebration is one of the largest in the country, with the Boston Pops concert and fireworks drawing over 500,000 people to the Esplanade.
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• Harbor activities: July water temperatures in Boston Harbor reach 65-70°F, making harbor cruises and water activities most enjoyable. The Harbor Islands are accessible by ferry for day trips.
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• Cultural calendar: The Boston Summer Arts Weekend, outdoor movies on the Greenway, and numerous street festivals make July the most vibrant month for city culture

12. New Hampshire Seacoast

Visit for: fresh seafood, ocean views, lobster fishing, New England beaches, museums

Two surfers at sunrise on Jenness Beach, NH

New Hampshire has a tiny stretch of coastline but it has SO much to offer. I was honestly shocked by how much I loved this hidden gem region last summer.

The combination of 18 miles of rugged coastline, fresh seafood, and boutique shops in downtown Portsmouth create a classic New England experience.

My favorite thing about the New Hampshire Seacoast in July is that you can get perfect beach weather and charming coastal vibes without the overwhelming summer crowds of other New England beaches (looking at you, Cape Cod).

A highlight of our time here was visiting the Portsmouth Strawberry Banke Museum. It’s a “living” museum located in a neighborhood of historic homes from the 1700s. You can walk through the houses where people role-play actual residents from 1900-1943 and teach you about the history of the area. I visited a Ukrainian Jewish immigrant’s home from 1919 and a corner store displaying WWII ration stamps.

I also so highly recommend walking through Fuller Gardens in North Hampton. This rose garden is just off the main road, but feels like a hidden oasis with stunning gardens and greenhouses. You can even buy a rose bush, which makes such a cute souvenir.

And obviously you cannot leave without trying New England clam chowder. Old Salt Restaurant is a modest little pub, but has what might actually be the best clam chowder in all of New England (locals weren’t kidding about this one).

Posts to help you plan your trip to the New Hampshire Seacoast: 

All hotel options in Portsmouth

New Hampshire Road Trip: How to Spend 3 Days in the Seacoast Region of NH

• Beach conditions: The Seacoast Region is located in the gulf of Maine, so the water is always pretty chilly and not great for swimming. But temperatures are warmest in July and the weather is the most sunny. Go to Hampton Beach for families and Jenness Beach for a quieter, more local experience.
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• Seafood season: July is peak season for lobster, clams and local fish in New Hampshire. If you prefer to catch your own lobster, book a trip on the water with Captain Bob!

13. Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington

Visit for: hiking, waterfalls, wineries, moody weather

If you’re adventuring through the PNW, July is perfect for hiking in Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington.

There are many waterfalls in this area, but if you only have time for one, hiking to Falls Creek Falls is a MUST. This 335-foot waterfall drops in three tiers through a narrow gorge and completely blew me away.

The hike takes you across two bridges (one looks sketchy but is totally stable, the other is a cable suspension bridge over a rocky gorge) and uphill through the old growth forest before reaching the falls, and in July you can actually enjoy getting misted by the water on warm days.

14. New York City, New York

Visit for: rooftop dining, outdoor concerts, shopping, museums

A summer sunrise over Manhattan from Arlo NoMad

Okay, hear me out…even though its stifling, there’s still nothing quite like summer in in The Big Apple.

July is when the city comes alive. From rooftop movies to outdoor concerts, the energy is infectious and you can feel that summer buzz everywhere you go.

Stroll through Central Park, explore the High Line park, catch sunset from Domino Park in Brooklyn and check out the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show.

When the heat in the concrete jungle gets to be too much, head inside to explore famous museums like the Met or Museum of National History.

• Summer shows: Central Park SummerStage, Shakespeare in the Park and outdoor movie screenings throughout the five boroughs
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• 4th of July festivities: The Macy’s fireworks show is launched from multiple barges, so it’s visible from numerous vantage points across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Get there early to get a good spot!

15. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Visit for: hiking, camping, wildlife, campervan road trips

Golden hour at Taggart Lake in July

Grand Teton in July is jaw dropping and easily one of my favorite USA summer destinations for a campervan road trip.

If you can believe it, the crystal clear lakes, towering peaks and perfect hiking weather make Grand Teton even more stunning in person than in the photos you see all over Instagram.

While you’re there, make the short hike to Taggart Lake, watch sunrise at Snake River Overlook (absolutely essential!) and take in the views from Inspiration Point.

If you have more than a few days to spare, combine Grand Teton with a trip to Yellowstone and Glacier National Park for an epic Rocky Mountain road trip.

• Best photo spots in Grand Teton: Snake River Overlook is where Ansel Adams captured his famous “The Tetons and the Snake River” photograph. Sunrise here is magical with the mountains reflecting in the calm water.
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• Lake temperatures in July: Alpine lakes warm up enough for a swim if you’re brave. Taggart Lake and Bradley Lake are the most accessible and warmest options.
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• Wildlife spotting: July is best for spotting moose, bears and other wildlife around Oxbow Bend. The best time to see them is around dawn and dusk when they’re most active.

16. Block Island, Rhode Island

Visit for: ocean views, lounging on the beach, lobster rolls, laid back island vibes

If you’re craving an underrated island getaway in New England, Block Island is the perfect New England beach escape that still feels like a secret.

It’s a tiny island located just a short ferry ride from the mainland with lighthouses, sandy beaches and a laid back coastal vibe without the overwhelming crowds.

Spend a weekend here lounging at Mansion Beach, exploring the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs, renting a moped to cruise the island and enjoying lobster rolls with a crisp glass of sauvy b and ocean views (of course). You get all the charm of Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard without the overwhelming crowds or sky-high prices.

All hotel options on Block Island

 

• How to get there: The ferry runs frequently from Point Judith, RI (55 minutes) and New London, CT (1 hour). You NEED to make a reservation for cars in advance for July.
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• Island cycling: The island is only 7 miles long and 3 miles wide, which is perfect to explore by bike. Most accommodations on the island provide or rent bicycles for you to get around.

17. Fairbanks, Alaska

Visit for: midnight sun, Denali National Park, cultural experiences, mountain scenery

Most people only think of Alaska for northern lights, but summer gives you a unique experience you can’t get anywhere else in the United States. While it’s not exactly the warm, tropical destination most people look for in July, Fairbanks, Alaska is a bucket list summer destination famous for the “midnight sun”.

In July, Fairbanks has almost 24 hours of daylight to explore and summer wildflowers are in full bloom across the state.

You can do so much in a short amount of time like take riverboat cruises, soak in Chena Hot Springs, learn about Indigenous culture at the Morris Thompson Cultural Center, and explore Denali National Park.

• Midnight sun: In July, Fairbanks gets about 22 hours of daylight. The sun sets around 12:30 AM and rises again at 2:30 AM, but it never gets truly dark.
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• Visiting Denali National Park: Fairbanks is the closest major city to Denali National Park (120 miles). July offers the best weather for seeing Mount Denali, with clear skies occurring about 30% of the time.
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• Cultural experiences in July: The World Eskimo-Indian Olympics typically occur in July and feature traditional Native Alaskan games and cultural demonstrations.

18. Ely, Minnesota

Visit for: peaceful nights in the wilderness, off grid canoe trips, wildlife

If you want to unplug and reconnect with nature, Ely, Minnesota is the perfect summer destination for a digital detox (and a surprisingly great local art scene!)

Located at the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, it’s all about peaceful lakes, pine forests, and starry skies that remind you what quiet actually sounds like.

Take a canoe trip through the endless waterways, hike the Trezona Trail and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like moose and bald eagles.

• Boundary Waters Permits: Entry Permits are required for the Boundary Waters. You can reserve them up to 4 months in advance, but July dates fill up quickly because of peak season.
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• Mosquitos: July is great for everyone…including the bugs. While the black flies are typically gone at this time, you’ll still have to deal with mosquitos, so come armed with your bug repellent.
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• Stargazing: Ely is actually in one of the darkest sky regions in the Midwest and clear nights in July make for incredible stargazing.

19. Green Mountains, Vermont

Visit for: jewel toned swimming holes, waterfalls, hiking, farmers markets

Everyone thinks of Vermont for fall foliage, but summer is equally amazing and generally way less crowded.

The Green Mountains in Vermont, specifically, are pure summer magic. The flowers are blooming and the jewel-toned swimming holes are finally warm enough to swim in.

Coming from the south, I recommend taking an early morning hike up to the Deer Leap Overlook Trail in the southern Green Mountains and then cooling off for the afternoon at Warren Falls. This is one of my all time favorite local swimming holes with crystal clear pools and natural rock slides. Then continue north to the charming town of Stowe.

While in Vermont, don’t miss out on the *quintessential* Vermont experience of trying a maple creemee (Vermont’s version of soft serve).

• Swimming hole season: Vermont is famous for swimming holes and waterfalls and July is when they’re at their best. Warren Falls, Huntington Gorge, and the Potholes in Shelburne Falls are cool and refreshing on a hot summer day. But please remember that these are natural areas and to always Leave No Trace by packing out all of your trash and respecting the area. This way, we can all ensure that these wild places stay beautiful for generations to come.
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• Farm-to-table dining: Vermont has an amazing farm-to-table food scene and it peaks in July when local produce is at its freshest. Many restaurants in places like Stowe, Woodstock, and Montpelier feature special summer menus highlighting local ingredients.
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• Outdoor festivals: The Vermont Brewers Festival, Stowe Craft Fair, and numerous farmers markets are open in July.

Essential Planning Tips for July Travel in the USA

As you can imagine, July is peak travel season which means crowds and higher flight prices and limited availability for hotels, tours, cars, etc. Here are some essential tips for smart planning to save money and avoid crowds:

• Start planning your trip 4-6 months in advance for the best selection and rates. National park lodges and popular destinations like Yellowstone and Glacier often book up 6-12 months ahead for July dates.
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• Consider booking hotels outside popular destinations and driving in for day trips. Camping is an excellent budget option but requires advance reservations at most national and state parks, especially on the East Coast.
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• Start your day early! Most tourists don’t arrive at attractions until 9-10 AM. Popular hiking trails and viewpoints are often empty at sunrise. Similarly, late afternoon visits (after 4 PM) can be less crowded as people head home and go out to dinner.

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• Take advantage of free activities. Peak season travel is expensive but there’s often a lot of free things to do instead. Hiking trails, beaches and city parks don’t charge admission. You can also look for free museum days, outdoor concerts and festivals. National parks cost money but the annual passes pay for themselves if you visit 3+ parks.
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• Choose lesser-known alternatives to famous places. Instead of crowded Yellowstone, explore Grand Teton. Rather than packed Cape Cod beaches, try New Hampshire’s seacoast. These alternatives often offer similar experiences with fewer crowds and lower costs.

Regional Weather and What to Expect

July weather varies dramatically across the United States, ranging from high heat in the Southwest to cool, unpredictable conditions in mountain/high elevation areas. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect from weather in these areas:

Mountain Regions (Rockies, Cascades, Adirondacks)

July is the best time to visit mountain regions in the United States because high elevation trails are free of snow and mountain roads are open (like in Glacier National Park). The temperatures are generally very comfy for hiking.

However, weather in mountain regions is unpredictable and can change super quickly during the summer. This means that even if the skies look clear in the morning, storms can quickly roll in and ruin your plans. Prepare for afternoon thunderstorms by checking the weather, starting hikes early and being prepared to turn back if needed.

Also keep in mind that temperatures drop 3-5 degrees per 1,000 feet of elevation gain. A 70°F day at the base of your hike can be much colder at the summit. Pack warm layers even for day hikes.

Read next: What to Pack for a Day Hike

Coastal Regions (Pacific, Atlantic, Gulf)

Northern coastal areas have the most stable weather in July and usually aren’t super hot thanks to the ocean breeze.

One thing to be aware of is hurricanes. While July is early in hurricane season, make sure to monitor weather forecasts for Gulf and Atlantic coastal destinations. Have flexible travel plans if storms develop.

Desert Southwest

I honestly don’t recommend visiting the US southwest in July because it’s extremely hot (100-115°F), which is dangerous for doing anything outdoors. If you do go, plan your outdoor activities (especially hiking) for early morning or late afternoon and avoid midday hours.

Carry extra water and salty snacks, wear light colored clothing, and know how to recognize signs of heat exhaustion.

Best July Festivals and Events Across the USA

Aside from Independence Day Celebrations, July is a great time to visit festivals and local events that celebrate local culture and traditions across the United States.

No matter where you go, make sure to plan ahead! Areas with large festivals sell out of hotels far in advance and popular fireworks displays fill up hours before the show starts.

Top 4th of July destinations

• • • Boston: Historic significance with Boston Pops concert
    • Washington DC: National fireworks on the National Mall
    • New York City: Macy’s fireworks spectacular
    • Small-town America: Authentic parades and community celebrations

Notable July festivals

• • • Newport Folk Festival, Rhode Island
    • Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, California/Nevada
    • Finger Lakes Wine Festival, New York
    • Blueberry festivals in Michigan and Maine
    • Native American powwows in the Southwest
    • Rodeos and county fairs in rural areas
    • Yarmouth Clam Festival in Maine

Stand at a farmers market in the Berkshires in Sturbridge, MA

Frequently Asked Questions About July Travel in the USA

Which state is best to visit in July?

The “best” state depends on your interests, but several stand out for July travel. California is incredible diverse and you can see a lot in a short amount of time by driving the Pacific Coast Highway or taking some mountain adventures. Montana is best if you want full access to Glacier National Park. Maine is best if you love a quintessential summer coastal experience with less crowds of the rest of New England. And a New York road trip is ideal to combine a trip to NYC with pristine outdoor adventures in Lake Placid and Catskill Mountains.

What are the best summer vacation spots in the US for families?

For families, I recommend places with diverse activities and reliable weather. Lake George in the Adirondacks, New Hampshire Seacoast and Boston have a lot to do for families, including beaches, museums, tours, and a large variety of activities.

Is July a good time to visit the USA?

July is excellent for traveling in the US because it has some of the most reliable weather and seasonal attractions are open. While it’s the busiest and most expensive month, the warm weather and long daylight hours make it easy to travel around and see a lot in a short amount of time.

What should I pack for July travel in the USA?

What you pack for your July vacation depends on where you go. But at the very least, pack layers for temperature changes, sun protection, comfy walking shoes, a good rain jacket, reusable water bottle, and any specific gear for planned activities (hiking boots, bathing suit, etc.). Also, don’t forget your chargers and camera!

How far in advance should I book July travel?

Millions of people travel around the US in July, so the earlier you book, the better selection and rates you’ll find. If you have your heart set on a specific hotel or if you’re on a tight budget, you should start planning your July travel 4-6 months in advance. Popular attractions and backcountry wilderness areas increasingly require advance reservations and permits that sometimes book out months in advance.

Where are the coolest places in the US during July?

To escape the summer heat, head to the coast of Northern Maine, the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, or high elevation areas like Colorado and Montana.

What are the most budget-friendly July destinations?

While July travel is expensive in the United States, you can still save some money if you plan carefully. Budget friendly July options include: state parks and national forests (lower entrance fees than national parks), camping instead of hotels, road trips to avoid flight costs, and lesser known destinations with similar attractions to famous spots. For example, consider the Adirondacks instead of expensive mountain resorts in Colorado or New Hampshire’s seacoast over Cape Cod.

How do I avoid crowds at popular July destinations?

To avoid crowds in July, visit popular spots at sunrise or late afternoon, travel on weekdays instead weekends, and try getting off the beaten path. Having a flexible itinerary also helps, so you can adjust your schedule based on the crowds.

What are the best road trip routes for July?

There are some incredible road trip routes in the United States in July! Some of my favorites include the Pacific Coast Highway for coastal scenery, the Adirondack scenic byways for cute towns and mountain views, and the iconic Yellowstone – Grand Teton – Glacier National Park campervan road trip route.

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July is the pinnacle of summer travel in the United States because it gives you unparalleled access to the countries most incredible destinations. This list outlined some of my favorite destinations across the country filled with national parks, coastal charm, and the energy of summer cities. Each of these places offers something that makes dealing with the crowds and higher prices worthwhile.

Ready to start planning your July adventure? Choose a destination that speaks to your interests, book early to secure the best options, and prepare for one of the most memorable summer trips you’ll ever take.

Have you visited any of these July destinations? What’s your favorite summer travel spot in the USA? Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below!

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