It’s time to start planning your summer vacations if you haven’t already! We’ve searched trusted sources and dove into our own travel experiences to bring you our top 5 destinations to consider traveling to this summer.

CHICAGO

When a lot of people think of Chicago they think of the freezing winters, but the summer months are the BEST time to experience this beautiful city. Situated on the edge of Lake Michigan in Illinois you get everything a vibrant metropolitan city has to offer plus the water views and breeze from the lake. According to Travel + Leisure, “come to Chicago in July, and you’ll find the lakeshore beaches hopping with volleyball players, restaurant patios buzzing with patrons, and fireworks going off from the Navy Pier”.

CAPE COD

Everyone knows you can’t go wrong with a recommendation from Oprah (our fav!) so when Cape Cod was #1 on her Summer Travel list we had to add it to our list. Typically temperatures don’t go past 80 degrees F so it is the perfect beach getaway without the extreme summer heat. Enjoy the views, quaint towns and of course, the seafood. According to Oprah.com, “The Cape Cod National Seashore encompasses almost 40 miles of beaches and trails on the eastern edge of the Cape—the view from the 155-year-old Highland Lighthouse is a must-see”.

THE GRAND CANYON

The Grand Canyon in Arizona is one of America’s famous landmarks you must see at least once in your lifetime. The canyon is an entire mile deep and takes approximately 5 hours and 215 miles to drive around it. But don’t worry, you don’t need to drive around the entire thing to get the most amazing views of this natural wonder’s colorful landscapes. CLICK HERE for a list of some of the best view points and don’t forget the camera!

SAN FRANCISCO

Coastal breezes, charming architecture, a big bridge and a workout for your legs! San Francisco, California is known for its steep roads in addition to the famous Golden Gate Bridge. Pack your sneakers and enjoy the views this hilly city provides! During your city strolls make sure to walk the curvy Lombard Street- known everywhere for it’s super sharp turns. The city can get pricey so check out Thrillist’s list of “Free Things to Do in San Francisco” to save a little cash for the amazingly delicious dinners you’ll want to indulge in!

HAWAII

You might be thinking- forget the cities and the desert, I want a tropical ocean escape this summer! Well it’s time to leave the contiguous United States and jet set yourself over to one of Hawaii’s eight islands. Take your pick from the Big Island, Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, or Kahoolawe- no matter what you will be surrounded by an endless ocean, lush landscapes and absolute beauty. Need some help choosing which island to visit? Trust Lonely Planet’s First Timers’ Guide to Choosing an Island and we’ll see you there!

Where will you be traveling this summer?

Comment below and let us know your summer plans, and let us know some of your favorite vacations spots around the United States!

 

** All images were taking from Google