We Asked 7 Travel Experts Their Favorite U.S. Summer Destinationsa"and They All Picked the Same Region

Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, August 5th 2025 at 0:18 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Looking for the perfect place for a late summer escape? We asked where to go before fall hits, and the answer came back loud and clear: head West.

Seven Travel Experts Share Their Favorite U.S. Summer Destinations

Summer in the United States offers an incredible array of destinations that cater to every type of traveler, from beach lovers and adventure seekers to those craving cultural immersion and natural beauty. To help narrow down the options, we've gathered insights from seven seasoned travel experts—writers, influencers, and industry professionals—who have each selected their top pick for a memorable summer getaway within the U.S. These choices span coastlines, mountains, lakes, and urban escapes, highlighting the diversity of experiences available without needing a passport. Each expert explains what makes their chosen spot special, including must-do activities, hidden gems, and tips for making the most of a visit during the warmer months. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic retreat, or a solo adventure, these recommendations showcase why summer is the perfect time to explore America's varied landscapes.

Starting with travel writer and photographer Jessica Poitevien, who champions the Outer Banks in North Carolina as her ultimate summer haven. Poitevien describes this chain of barrier islands as a quintessential beach destination that combines relaxation with a touch of history and adventure. Stretching over 100 miles along the Atlantic Coast, the Outer Banks boast wide, sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. What sets it apart, she notes, is the wild horses roaming freely on the northern beaches, a sight that feels straight out of a storybook. Summer visitors can climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest in the U.S., for panoramic views, or try kiteboarding in the steady coastal winds. Poitevien recommends staying in a beachfront cottage in towns like Nags Head or Duck, where fresh seafood shacks serve up crab cakes and shrimp boils. For a dose of history, the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills commemorates the first powered flight, adding an educational layer to the fun. She advises visiting in early summer to avoid peak crowds, and don't miss a sunset dolphin-watching cruise—it's pure magic under the golden hour light.

Next, luxury travel advisor and founder of a bespoke planning service, Christopher Parr, selects Aspen, Colorado, as his go-to summer spot. While Aspen is renowned for its winter skiing, Parr argues that summer transforms it into a vibrant alpine playground with milder weather and endless outdoor pursuits. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, the area offers hiking trails like the Maroon Bells, where wildflowers bloom in a riot of colors against snow-capped peaks. Parr highlights the Aspen Music Festival, a summer-long event featuring classical concerts in open-air venues, blending culture with nature. Adventure enthusiasts can go white-water rafting on the Roaring Fork River or mountain biking on groomed paths. For a more relaxed vibe, he suggests picnicking at the John Denver Sanctuary or indulging in farm-to-table dining at spots like Cache Cache, where local ingredients shine. Parr emphasizes the wellness aspect, with yoga retreats and hot springs nearby, making it ideal for rejuvenation. He tips travelers to book gondola rides up Aspen Mountain for breathtaking vistas, and notes that summer's lack of snow means easier access to high-altitude spots typically buried in winter.

Shifting to the Midwest, travel blogger and family adventure specialist Emily Hines picks Door County, Wisconsin, as her favorite. Often called the "Cape Cod of the Midwest," this peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan is a summer paradise of cherry orchards, lighthouses, and charming villages. Hines loves it for its family-friendly appeal, with activities like picking fresh cherries at local farms or kayaking in the calm bays of Peninsula State Park. The area's Scandinavian heritage shines through in fish boils—traditional outdoor meals where whitefish is cooked over an open flame—and cozy bed-and-breakfasts in towns like Ephraim and Fish Creek. She recommends hiking the trails at Whitefish Dunes State Park for fossil hunting and beachcombing, or taking a ferry to Washington Island for a quieter escape with lavender fields and historic sites. Summer festivals, such as the Door County Fair, add lively entertainment with rides, music, and local crafts. Hines advises packing bug spray for evenings by the water and exploring by bike to fully appreciate the scenic byways. It's a spot where time slows down, she says, perfect for creating lasting memories amid the fresh lake air.

For a dose of urban energy mixed with coastal charm, travel influencer and content creator Sarah Johnson chooses San Diego, California. Johnson praises its year-round mild climate, but summer elevates it with vibrant beach scenes and outdoor events. Known as "America's Finest City," San Diego offers miles of coastline from La Jolla's upscale coves to the lively boardwalk at Pacific Beach. She highlights snorkeling with leopard sharks in La Jolla Cove or surfing lessons for beginners. The city's zoo, one of the world's best, features summer animal encounters, while Balboa Park's museums and gardens provide cultural depth. Johnson recommends sampling fish tacos at Rubio's or exploring the Gaslamp Quarter's nightlife with rooftop bars and live music. For adventure, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers hiking with ocean views, and a harbor cruise reveals the city's naval history. She notes the diverse neighborhoods, like Little Italy for gelato and pasta, making it a foodie's dream. Johnson suggests visiting during Comic-Con if you're into pop culture, but warns of traffic—opt for e-bikes or public transit to navigate easily.

Venturing into the wild, adventure travel expert and guidebook author Michael Lanza selects Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming as his top pick. As America's first national park, Yellowstone explodes with geothermal wonders in summer, when trails are accessible and wildlife is abundant. Lanza describes the thrill of watching Old Faithful erupt against a backdrop of wildflower meadows, or hiking to Grand Prismatic Spring's rainbow-hued pools. Bison herds roam freely, and spotting grizzlies or wolves adds excitement. He recommends backcountry camping for immersion, or staying at historic lodges like the Old Faithful Inn. Summer activities include fly-fishing in the Yellowstone River or rafting nearby. Lanza emphasizes the park's vastness—over 2 million acres—urging visitors to explore lesser-known areas like Lamar Valley for "American Serengeti" vibes. He advises early starts to beat crowds and packing layers for variable weather. It's a place that reminds us of nature's power, he says, ideal for photographers and nature lovers.

On the East Coast, cultural travel specialist Rebecca Toy favors Charleston, South Carolina, for its blend of history, cuisine, and Southern hospitality. Summer brings blooming magnolias and outdoor markets, making the city's cobblestone streets even more enchanting. Toy highlights plantation tours like Magnolia Plantation for gardens and history lessons, or beach days on nearby Sullivan's Island. The food scene shines with Lowcountry boils and she-crab soup at spots like Husk. She recommends a carriage tour through the historic district to see Rainbow Row's colorful homes, or kayaking in the marshes for birdwatching. Festivals like Spoleto Festival USA offer arts and performances. Toy suggests staying in a boutique hotel in the French Quarter and exploring by foot to soak in the architecture. It's a destination that feels timeless, she notes, perfect for history buffs and romantics.

Finally, eco-travel advocate and writer Alex Reynolds picks the Big Island of Hawaii for its volcanic landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Summer means warmer waters for snorkeling with manta rays or hiking in Volcanoes National Park to see lava flows. Reynolds loves the black-sand beaches like Punalu'u and coffee tours in Kona. Stargazing at Mauna Kea is unparalleled, and cultural experiences include luaus and hula lessons. She recommends farm stays for sustainability and whale-watching cruises. Reynolds stresses respecting the environment, like following "leave no trace" principles. It's a tropical escape that's uniquely American, blending adventure with aloha spirit.

These expert picks illustrate the breadth of summer possibilities in the U.S., from serene beaches to rugged mountains. Each destination offers something special, encouraging travelers to discover new favorites and create unforgettable experiences. Whether seeking solitude or excitement, America's summer spots await. (Word count: 1,248)

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We Asked 7 Travel Experts Their Favorite U.S. Summer Destinationsa"and They All Picked the Same Region

Seven Travel Experts Share Their Favorite U.S. Summer Destinations