Booked some vacation time but still undecided on where to travel this August? As the final stretch of summer 2026 approaches, now is the ideal time to lock in a last-minute getaway. While planning a major international excursion might feel down to the wire, there are plenty of incredible spots right here in North America offering summer charm without the extreme heat or overwhelming crowds. Personally, I like to steer clear of anything chilly under 60°F, so destinations with mild, sunny days and cool evening breezes are the sweet spot this time of year. If you’re ready for a refreshing escape, here are 10 fantastic places to explore right now — get ‘em while they’re warm! Scroll for the 10 best places to travel in August.San Diego, CASan Diego is known for its 72 and sunny year-round weather. In August, it heats up to a toasty 77 degrees on average, making it the perfect getaway to escape the extreme heat across the U.S. This stunningly pretty city is known for its gorgeous Pacific Ocean beaches and coastal hikes. Marvel at the pelicans and sea lions at the stunning La Jolla Cove, wander through botanical paradise of Balboa Park and visit the flamingos at the famed San Diego Zoo. Dine and drink in the Gaslamp District, explore the historic and beautiful Hotel del Coronado, and hike the scenic trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for the best coastal getaway on the west. Check out our San Diego Local's Guide to the quieter (and cooler) North County of San Diego. Glacier National Park, MontanaOne of my favorite trips this year was glamping at the beautiful West Glacier KOA Resort, located just three miles outside the national park entrance. You can book anything from cozy, rustic cabins to deluxe modern versions complete with a full kitchen, bath, and a private roof deck for stargazing. While we engaged in on-site activities like t-shirt tie-dying and a birds of prey workshop, the highlight was exploring Glacier National Park on e-bikes. We booked a guided tour with Glacier Guides along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. You are surrounded by waterfalls, towering snow-capped peaks, and fields of wildflowers, including the striking white plumes of native "bear grass." By the time we returned, our muscles were spent, but we still managed to toast to our success with a hot chocolate spiked with huckleberry liqueur at the outdoor bar while listening to live music. Read more in How to Plan the Ultimate Girls' Weekend.Rocky Mountain National Park, COExperience the perfect blend of city life and mountain adventure with this getaway. Start your trip by flying into Denver, where you can visit museums, catch outdoor summer concerts, and taste amazing food from every corner of the globe. Make Denver your basecamp for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, just a short two-hour drive away. Plan to hike along the Bear Lake Road corridor for incredibly scenic views, hiking trails suitable for all levels, and wildlife sightings. Catch a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and if you love stargazing, mark your calendar for Rocky Mountain National Park's Astronomy in the Park event on August 7 and 14.Lake Tahoe, CALake Tahoe is a dreamy escape any time of year, but late summer is especially perfect. Spend your days paddleboarding on the crystal-clear waters of Sand Harbor, taking in panoramic alpine views along the Tahoe Rim Trail, or biking through scenic forest paths. After soaking up the sun, head into South Lake Tahoe for waterfront dining and live outdoor music, or unwind with a sunset cruise across Emerald Bay. Whether you’re looking to relax by the shore or pack your days with outdoor adventures, Tahoe offers the ultimate mountain-meets-lake escape. Stay at the Edgewood Tahoe Resort for a serene escape right on the lake.Seattle + Olympic National Park, WAAvoid peak rainy season and enjoy Seattle in August when it shines with warm, sunny weather, making it perfect for getting outside and exploring all it has to offer. One of the biggest highlights after exploring Seattle is the Hoh Rain Forest, a fairytale setting of ancient trees draped in moss and ferns that seem to glow in the diffused light. Hike the short Hall of Mosses trail, and let the silence of the rainforest reset your nervous system. It’s literally one of the quietest places in the continental U.S. Continue your journey through Forks (Twilight fans, unite!), past Rialto Beach and Ruby Beach. Inland, detour to Lake Crescent, a glacial lake so still and clear it looks like glass. After a day of exploring, unwind in a rocking chair on the porch at Lake Quinault Lodge, a historic lakefront hotel nestled in the southern edge of Olympic National Park.Portland + Willamette Valley, OR Portland, Oregon, Seattle’s rainy cousin in the south, also perks up weather-wise in August. I love this city for its amazing food (Pine State Biscuits and Pasture PDX, to name a few), art and music scene, and indie shops. Wander through the Portland Saturday Market, where local artisans show off their makes, and enjoy a meal from one of the city's delicious food trucks. Explore Washington Park, home to the stunning International Rose Test Garden and the tranquil Japanese Garden. Don’t miss Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world, perfect for book lovers. Willamette Valley, Oregon’s wine country, is a short drive south. Spend a day touring vineyards and tasting some of the finest Pinot Noir in the country. Many wineries offer breathtaking views, picnic areas, and guided tours. There are also waterfall hikes, biking trails, river activities, and hot air balloon rides!Ogunquit and Kennebunkport, MEWhat I love about these beach towns in Maine is how chill they are even in peak season. No crazy crowds like their southern New England neighbors. Ogunquit Beach is perfect for lounging and swimming (and summer reading). Explore Perkins Cove, a quaint fishing village with charming shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants like the Lobster Shack. For a touch of culture, visit the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, which showcases a diverse collection of American art on three acres of sculpture gardens right along the ocean. Catch a Broadway-caliber show at the Ogunquit Playhouse, a historic summer theater, before you take a short drive north to Kennebunkport. This quintessential New England town is full of historic charm. Stroll through Dock Square, the heart of Kennebunkport, with its unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants like Alisson's for local seafood or The Boathouse for amazing water views. Spend a day at Goose Rocks Beach, a serene spot perfect for relaxing and exploring tide pools. For a scenic adventure, take a boat tour along the Kennebunk River or out to see the iconic Goat Island Lighthouse.White Mountain National Forest, NHAugust weather is perfect for exploring NH's White Mountain National Forest, where you can hike some of the area’s renowned trails, such as the Franconia Ridge Loop or the Mount Washington Summit, the highest peak in the Northeast. For a more relaxed experience, take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, known for its stunning vistas and numerous pull-offs where you can take photos and enjoy a picnic. Visit the Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park, where you can walk through the narrow gorge, past waterfalls, and covered bridges. The Conway Scenic Railroad offers a charming way to see the landscape, with vintage train rides through the mountains (if you're traveling with kids, this is a must!). Explore the quaint towns nestled in the White Mountains too, like North Conway and Lincoln, where you’ll find charming shops, local restaurants, and cozy stays like the Scandi-inspired Villa Hygge Scandinavian Boutique Hotel & Spa.Upper Peninsula, MIAugust is a perfect time to visit this gorgeous part of the country. Start your trip with a visit to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where you can explore stunning cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Kayaking along the shoreline offers an up-close view of the colorful rock formations, while hiking trails like Chapel Loop provide breathtaking vistas and waterfalls. Head to Mackinac Island for a step back in time. Accessible by ferry, this car-free island features charming Victorian architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and the historic Fort Mackinac. Rent a bike to ride around the island, taking in the scenic views of Lake Huron. Tahquamenon Falls State Park boasts one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, perfect for a day of hiking and picnicking. Finish your trip with a visit to Marquette, a vibrant college town with a lively arts scene, excellent dining, and beautiful beaches along Lake Superior. Don't miss Presque Isle Park, a natural oasis with scenic trails and rocky outcrops perfect for sunset views. Burlington, VT + Montreal, QuebecGrab your passport for an east coast international journey. Start your travels in Burlington, VT, a picturesque city on the shores of Lake Champlain. In August, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Stroll along the scenic Burlington Greenway, which offers stunning views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains. Head to the Church Street Marketplace, a bustling pedestrian mall filled with unique shops and local eateries. Don't miss the nearby Shelburne Farms, where you can tour a working farm and sample delicious Vermont cheese. Just a two-hour drive from Burlington, Montreal is like stepping foot in a mini Paris, especially around the cobblestone streets and historic buildings of Old Montreal. Visit the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, known for its intricate Gothic Revival architecture. For a panoramic view of the city, hike up Mont Royal, and explore the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood for its colorful murals, trendy boutiques, and lively cafes.Looking for your next travel destination? Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter for even more inspo!
Booked some vacation time but still undecided on where to travel this August? As the final stretch of summer 2026 approaches, now is the ideal time to lock in a last-minute getaway. While planning a major international excursion might feel down to the wire, there are plenty of incredible spots right here in North America offering summer charm without the extreme heat or overwhelming crowds. Personally, I like to steer clear of anything chilly under 60°F, so destinations with mild, sunny days and cool evening breezes are the sweet spot this time of year. If you’re ready for a refreshing escape, here are 10 fantastic places to explore right now — get ‘em while they’re warm!
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San Diego is known for its 72 and sunny year-round weather. In August, it heats up to a toasty 77 degrees on average, making it the perfect getaway to escape the extreme heat across the U.S. This stunningly pretty city is known for its gorgeous Pacific Ocean beaches and coastal hikes. Marvel at the pelicans and sea lions at the stunning La Jolla Cove, wander through botanical paradise of Balboa Park and visit the flamingos at the famed San Diego Zoo. Dine and drink in the Gaslamp District, explore the historic and beautiful Hotel del Coronado, and hike the scenic trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for the best coastal getaway on the west. Check out our San Diego Local's Guide to the quieter (and cooler) North County of San Diego.

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One of my favorite trips this year was glamping at the beautiful West Glacier KOA Resort, located just three miles outside the national park entrance. You can book anything from cozy, rustic cabins to deluxe modern versions complete with a full kitchen, bath, and a private roof deck for stargazing. While we engaged in on-site activities like t-shirt tie-dying and a birds of prey workshop, the highlight was exploring Glacier National Park on e-bikes. We booked a guided tour with Glacier Guides along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. You are surrounded by waterfalls, towering snow-capped peaks, and fields of wildflowers, including the striking white plumes of native "bear grass." By the time we returned, our muscles were spent, but we still managed to toast to our success with a hot chocolate spiked with huckleberry liqueur at the outdoor bar while listening to live music. Read more in How to Plan the Ultimate Girls' Weekend.

Experience the perfect blend of city life and mountain adventure with this getaway. Start your trip by flying into Denver, where you can visit museums, catch outdoor summer concerts, and taste amazing food from every corner of the globe. Make Denver your basecamp for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, just a short two-hour drive away. Plan to hike along the Bear Lake Road corridor for incredibly scenic views, hiking trails suitable for all levels, and wildlife sightings. Catch a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and if you love stargazing, mark your calendar for Rocky Mountain National Park's Astronomy in the Park event on August 7 and 14.

Lake Tahoe is a dreamy escape any time of year, but late summer is especially perfect. Spend your days paddleboarding on the crystal-clear waters of Sand Harbor, taking in panoramic alpine views along the Tahoe Rim Trail, or biking through scenic forest paths. After soaking up the sun, head into South Lake Tahoe for waterfront dining and live outdoor music, or unwind with a sunset cruise across Emerald Bay. Whether you’re looking to relax by the shore or pack your days with outdoor adventures, Tahoe offers the ultimate mountain-meets-lake escape. Stay at the Edgewood Tahoe Resort for a serene escape right on the lake.

Getty
Avoid peak rainy season and enjoy Seattle in August when it shines with warm, sunny weather, making it perfect for getting outside and exploring all it has to offer. One of the biggest highlights after exploring Seattle is the Hoh Rain Forest, a fairytale setting of ancient trees draped in moss and ferns that seem to glow in the diffused light. Hike the short Hall of Mosses trail, and let the silence of the rainforest reset your nervous system. It’s literally one of the quietest places in the continental U.S. Continue your journey through Forks (Twilight fans, unite!), past Rialto Beach and Ruby Beach. Inland, detour to Lake Crescent, a glacial lake so still and clear it looks like glass. After a day of exploring, unwind in a rocking chair on the porch at Lake Quinault Lodge, a historic lakefront hotel nestled in the southern edge of Olympic National Park.

Portland, Oregon, Seattle’s rainy cousin in the south, also perks up weather-wise in August. I love this city for its amazing food (Pine State Biscuits and Pasture PDX, to name a few), art and music scene, and indie shops. Wander through the Portland Saturday Market, where local artisans show off their makes, and enjoy a meal from one of the city's delicious food trucks. Explore Washington Park, home to the stunning International Rose Test Garden and the tranquil Japanese Garden. Don’t miss Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world, perfect for book lovers. Willamette Valley, Oregon’s wine country, is a short drive south. Spend a day touring vineyards and tasting some of the finest Pinot Noir in the country. Many wineries offer breathtaking views, picnic areas, and guided tours. There are also waterfall hikes, biking trails, river activities, and hot air balloon rides!

What I love about these beach towns in Maine is how chill they are even in peak season. No crazy crowds like their southern New England neighbors. Ogunquit Beach is perfect for lounging and swimming (and summer reading). Explore Perkins Cove, a quaint fishing village with charming shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants like the Lobster Shack. For a touch of culture, visit the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, which showcases a diverse collection of American art on three acres of sculpture gardens right along the ocean. Catch a Broadway-caliber show at the Ogunquit Playhouse, a historic summer theater, before you take a short drive north to Kennebunkport. This quintessential New England town is full of historic charm. Stroll through Dock Square, the heart of Kennebunkport, with its unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants like Alisson's for local seafood or The Boathouse for amazing water views. Spend a day at Goose Rocks Beach, a serene spot perfect for relaxing and exploring tide pools. For a scenic adventure, take a boat tour along the Kennebunk River or out to see the iconic Goat Island Lighthouse.

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August weather is perfect for exploring NH's White Mountain National Forest, where you can hike some of the area’s renowned trails, such as the Franconia Ridge Loop or the Mount Washington Summit, the highest peak in the Northeast. For a more relaxed experience, take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, known for its stunning vistas and numerous pull-offs where you can take photos and enjoy a picnic. Visit the Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park, where you can walk through the narrow gorge, past waterfalls, and covered bridges. The Conway Scenic Railroad offers a charming way to see the landscape, with vintage train rides through the mountains (if you're traveling with kids, this is a must!). Explore the quaint towns nestled in the White Mountains too, like North Conway and Lincoln, where you’ll find charming shops, local restaurants, and cozy stays like the Scandi-inspired Villa Hygge Scandinavian Boutique Hotel & Spa.

August is a perfect time to visit this gorgeous part of the country. Start your trip with a visit to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where you can explore stunning cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Kayaking along the shoreline offers an up-close view of the colorful rock formations, while hiking trails like Chapel Loop provide breathtaking vistas and waterfalls. Head to Mackinac Island for a step back in time. Accessible by ferry, this car-free island features charming Victorian architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and the historic Fort Mackinac. Rent a bike to ride around the island, taking in the scenic views of Lake Huron. Tahquamenon Falls State Park boasts one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, perfect for a day of hiking and picnicking. Finish your trip with a visit to Marquette, a vibrant college town with a lively arts scene, excellent dining, and beautiful beaches along Lake Superior. Don't miss Presque Isle Park, a natural oasis with scenic trails and rocky outcrops perfect for sunset views.

Grab your passport for an east coast international journey. Start your travels in Burlington, VT, a picturesque city on the shores of Lake Champlain. In August, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Stroll along the scenic Burlington Greenway, which offers stunning views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains. Head to the Church Street Marketplace, a bustling pedestrian mall filled with unique shops and local eateries. Don't miss the nearby Shelburne Farms, where you can tour a working farm and sample delicious Vermont cheese. Just a two-hour drive from Burlington, Montreal is like stepping foot in a mini Paris, especially around the cobblestone streets and historic buildings of Old Montreal. Visit the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, known for its intricate Gothic Revival architecture. For a panoramic view of the city, hike up Mont Royal, and explore the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood for its colorful murals, trendy boutiques, and lively cafes.
Looking for your next travel destination? Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter for even more inspo!
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