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Searching for summer trip ideas for your summer vacation? Here are some of the most fun summer trip ideas.
Summer will be here before you know it, and if you’re anything like me, you’re counting down the days until vacation.
However, if you’re a last-minute planner like me, you don’t know where you’re going yet. Who can relate?
But worry not! Because I’ve got some epic summer trip ideas that will help you decide where to spend your summer vacation.
After reading this post, you’ll have a whole list of vacation trips to choose from. Then you can finally book the vacation!
This post is all about epic summer trip ideas.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.
Epic Summer Trip Ideas
Florida
First up on the list of summer vacation ideas in the USA is Florida. Yes, Florida is a popular summer destination for almost every American, but there’s a reason for that.
Beautiful beaches, gorgeous weather, fresh seafood, and many vacation activities. What more do you need? And with amusement parks like Disney & Universal Studios, Florida is one of the best summer vacation spots for families.
Whether you go on a trip with friends, family, or just yourself, you can expect loads of fun & sunshine in Florida.
Top Cities to Visit in Florida This Summer:
- Key West
- St. Augustine
- Miami
- Orlando
- Panama City Beach
- Destin
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San Diego
San Diego is one of the best places to visit during summer in the USA. The late summer is the best time to visit San Diego due to its fantastic weather, smaller crowds, and miles and miles of warm ocean waters.
San Diego is perfect for a summer family vacation with fun attractions like Seaworld, the zoo, and whale-watching cruises.
Or, if you’re traveling with friends, you might explore wine tasting, biking on the boardwalk, or beach hopping. (Although I’ve always been obsessed with sea life, so I would definitely be down for a trip to Seaworld).
Best things to do in San Diego:
- San Diego Seal Tours
- Old Town Market
- International Beer Festival
- Balboa Park
- SeaWorld San Diego
Jamaica
Jamaica is one of those locations that is great all year long. However, the summer months are the low season, meaning fewer crowds. So you (almost) get the whole island to yourself.
Besides the gorgeous weather & sandy beaches, Jamaica is also known for its exciting festivals. And let me tell you, you can expect several during the summer. The Reggae Sumfest and Ocho Rios Jazz festival are just a few.
If you’re not the festival-going type, there are other adventurous activities to explore, like ziplining, bamboo rafting, snorkeling, cliff diving, and more. Some popular sites you might want to check out include the Bob Marley Museum, The World Famous Dunn’s River Falls & Park, and the Cool Blue Hole Ocho Rios.
Mexico
Another location that is in the low season during the summer is Mexico. Unfortunately, Mexico gets a bad rep for being dangerous. And while some parts are dangerous (as in any other part of the world), the country is generally a safe destination to visit.
If you’re into ancient landmarks, Mexico has several Aztec ruins and historic sites like Chichén Itzá and the Tulum Archaeological Zone. Plus, you can learn about former artists like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera in the local museums.
Mexico is also known for its beautiful beaches & lush forests. So anyone wanting to explore the outdoors, Mexico is an excellent choice for summer vacation.
Best (& Safest) Cities to Visit in Mexico:
- Tulum
- Puerto Vallarta
- La Paz
- Cancun
- Cozumel
Please make sure to do your research on the states you’re visiting in Mexico. Also, read up on local laws & tips for safety before traveling. The U.S. Department of State keeps an updated list of states to avoid in Mexico due to high-risk crime.
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Paris, France
Next up is one of my favorite places, Paris, France. Summer in Paris is magical, especially during the long summer nights. These fantastic nights make Paris one of the best summer vacation spots for couples (or anyone looking to make magical memories).
With delicious food, famous landmarks, and markets, there is much to see & do in Paris. And with the long summer days, you have more time to sightsee.
Best Things to Do in Paris in the Summer:
- Have a picnic at the foot of the Eiffel Tower
- Hop on a cruise on the Seine River
- Explore the city at night
- Visit top sites like the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe.
- Find a music or movie festival to attend
Paris is a whole vibe during the summer, so get your girls ready or your partner for a trip of a lifetime.
Lima, Peru
Lima, Peru, is another epic summer trip idea to add to your bucket list. However, June through August is the high season as international tourism spikes. So, if you want to avoid crowds, I suggest visiting during May; the weather is excellent, and the tourists haven’t flooded the city yet.
Lima is also known as South America’s food capital, so there is some good eating in the city. With the Andes, Amazon, and the Pacific Ocean, Lima has many natural ingredients that make its food phenomenal. Not to mention the many influences from African, Chinese, Japanese, and other cultures.
Besides all those yummy eats, you can explore famous sites like the Plaza de Armas, the Aliaga House, and ancient ruins in the Modern City. Fun things in Lima include taking a bike ride through the city, beach hopping, and paragliding.
Guatemala
Next is the beautiful Central American country, Guatemala. Guatemala should be at the top of your list if you want fun summer trip ideas. The country has everything you would need or want in a summer vacation.
Beautiful beaches, delicious food, fantastic weather, gorgeous outdoors, and loads of adventurous activities. And even more exciting, Guatemala boasts affordable prices.
Plus, Guatemala has several ancient Mayan ruins, like other locations on this list. Add these activities to your list of things to do in Guatemala: the Tikal National Park, Semuc Champey Natural Monument, Hill of the Cross, and the Antigua Guatemala Central Park.
Best Cities to Visit in Guatemala:
- Guatemala City
- Livingston
- Quetzaltenango
- Antigua Guatemala
- Flores
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Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs, California, is another destination to add to luxury summer vacation ideas. Palm Springs is one of the best places to soak the sun in style.
Palm Springs is also an ideal summer vacation for families because of the exciting waterparks and wildlife experiences. However, when you’re not relaxing at the spa or dipping in the pool, the city also has fantastic museums to explore, like the art & air museums.
On top of that, Palm Springs is home to world-class cuisine, so prepare for some yummy eats.
Top Resorts in Palm Springs:
- Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
- Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs
- Hilton Palm Springs
- Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel
So, Palm Springs is an excellent spot to consider for your summer trip, whether you want fun with the family or to sip on a cocktail at the spa.
The Great Smoky Mountains
I may be biased as I grew up just a few hours down the road, but the Great Smoky Mountains is an excellent summer trip idea. The views are absolutely stunning, and the trails are AMAZING, so if you’re into hiking, this is the spot for you.
When not spending time in the national park, explore the nearby town of Pigeon Forge. This mountain town is full of adventurous activities like white water rafting and ziplining. So, lots of fun for families & friends.
Plus, they have gorgeous cabins, which set the mood for a lovely romantic weekend with your boo. Check out cabin availability here.
More Fun Vacation Activities to do in Pigeon Forge:
- Dollywood – a popular theme park owned by Dolly Parton.
- Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
- Moonshine tasting
- TITANIC Museum Attraction
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Anakeesta – a big outdoor park with ziplining, gondola rides, and more.
Please note: the hotter weather can make hikes a bit harder, so you might consider hiking up the shorter trails. Also, make sure to stay hydrated.
Dominica
And lastly, Dominica (not the Dominican Republic) is a beautiful option for a luxury summer vacation. This Caribbean island has plenty to explore & do and is an ideal location for nature lovers.
Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, Dominica is known for its stunning landscape, waterfalls, volcanoes, beautiful beaches, and lakes. So, naturally, there are plenty of adventurous outdoor activities to enjoy. With all this and the lush forests, you can expect diverse wildlife, which always makes for an exciting trip.
Besides all the adventurous activities you can do, Dominica also has a rich and beautiful culture. So, while you’re there, catch a farmer’s market to experience the Dominica lifestyle.
Best Things to Do in Dominica:
- Visit Trafalgar Falls
- Go snorkeling in the Champagne Reef
- Hike in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park
- Take a swim in the Emerald Pool
Regardless of where you choose to visit this summer, live it up! Life is too short not to enjoy every. single. moment. of your life.
Wishing you safe & happy travels.
This post is all about epic summer trip ideas.
Remember to subscribe to the newsletter to keep up-to-date on the latest travel tips and inspiration!
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