Come summer, and it is time to welcome the warm weather, savor the outdoors, and enjoy the holidays.
Summer is a great season to indulge in travel and bond with family and friends. And if you are looking to visit some national parks, beaches, and lakes, there is no better time than summer. Here is a rundown of some engaging destinations you can visit this summer if you are looking for a meaningful break.
Grand Teton National Park
Spread over a whopping 310000 acres, this national park is in northwestern Wyoming. The park has been named after Grand Teton, which is the tallest mountain in the Teton Range. A pristine ecosystem replete with lakes, a small set of glaciers, and fauna and flora galore, the park is home to some of the oldest rocks in the country, with some of them being 2.7 billion years old. With over 200 miles of hiking trails and innumerable campsites, the park is extremely popular for trekking, hiking, fishing, and all sorts of adventure junkies. Biking, birdwatching, photography, and canoeing are yet other popular activities. It is also a great place for families for activities like paddling and wildlife watching.
Block Island
Located just under 10 miles south of Rhode Island, Block Island is a destination that boasts of rugged charm and natural beauty. It is an ideal place to visit if you are looking for a quintessential island experience; think virgin beaches, quaint cafes overlooking the ocean, charming stores, and loads of natural beauty all around. The island is famous for its Fourth of July celebrations, including the popular parade and firework display. Some famous sights in Block Island include the Southeast Lighthouse, the Block Island Historical Society Museum, and the North Lighthouse, as well as the Mohegan Bluffs, apart from several parks and recreation centers.
Portland, Oregon
A multifaceted city that offers a kaleidoscope of sights spanning nature, arts, and culture, Portland forms a compelling visit. Also called the city of roses, Portland is referred to as the gem of Oregon and is known for its vibrancy and eclectic culture. From quirky neighborhoods and funky museums to one-of-a-kind events and a bustling food scene, Portland has it all. The city has plenty of attractions, which include the Powell’s City of Books, which is notably the world’s largest new and used bookstore. This one is a haven for book lovers. The Portland Art Museum is one of the largest in the region and is a great idea if art is your calling. If you love being amidst the outdoors, do not miss the Portland Japanese Garden, Lan Su Chinese Garden, and International Rose Test Garden.
Grand Canyon National Park
Often considered one of the wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon, which is a gorge of the Colorado River, is the highlight of the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. Stretching almost 280 miles, the Grand Canyon is arguably one of the most popular places to visit in the country, with the South Rim being a favorite with visitors. Teeming with cafes, shops, and hotels, it is one of the best ways to see the park if you are short of time. The North Rim, which is open from October to May, is less crowded, while the West Rim offers a skywalk wherein visitors can walk over a glass bridge while enjoying panoramic views all around. Ideally have a window of three days to enjoy the essence of the Grand Canyon, which includes making the most of the hiking trails, enjoying the sunset, and stunning views all around.
Honolulu
Known for its sunny weather almost throughout the year, Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii and often touted as the gateway to the U.S. Island chain. While the city is a major hub for business and a bustling financial center, it is also known for its diverse traditions, cuisine, and customs thanks to its characteristic multi-cultural influences and melting pot of ethnicities. While here, there is plenty you can see and do, including touring the historic downtown area, the famous Waikiki Beach, and visiting the beautiful coastal cliffs. While here, do not miss Pearl Harbor, which is a historic landmark, as well as Diamond Head, an extinct volcano southeast of the city.
Mackinac Island
Listed as a National Historic Landmark, this city in the state of Michigan is often voted as the best destination to visit in the US during summer. Visiting the island is akin to taking a journey back in time; think leisurely trips in horse carriages, pastel-hued downtown shop facades, and bicycle rides along the lakeshore. If you are a lover of history, make sure to visit the numerous museums on the island and sites like Fort Mackinac and Fort Holmes. Nature lovers can indulge in activities like boating, kayaking, and swimming. While the city was once the center of the world’s fur trade, it is today famous for its innumerable fudge shops. So, when visiting this vintage city, do not forget to sample this delicacy from the many shops in downtown.
