While much of the country bakes under intense sun, head to these cool-weather summer vacation spots from coast to coast that offer a refreshing escape. From alpine towns to misty seascapes, these destinations deliver crisp mornings, manageable afternoon highs, and plenty of outdoor adventures without the scorching heat.
Long known as a summer destination for Bostonians and New Yorkers, Cape Cod offers breezy afternoons, scenic dunes, and historic seaside villages. Daytime highs are moderated by ocean winds, and evenings are perfect for beach walks, bike rides, or clam bakes.
Better known for skiing in winter, Stowe is a green mountain haven in the summer. With its high elevations and forest canopies, it’s ideal for spending summer days exploring shaded hiking trails, waterfalls, and small-town boutiques.
Camden is where rugged peaks embrace the sparkling sea—a haven for those chasing summer’s cool, cultured escapes. This timeless gem refreshes with sweeping vistas, laid-back vibe, and ocean-to-table fare.
Stretching from Cannon Beach to Bandon, the Oregon Coast offers foggy mornings and cool Pacific breezes that keep summer days comfortably crisp. With quiet beaches and rugged coastal trails, it’s a perfect place to escape the heat and enjoy nature’s calm.
Just a ferry ride from Seattle, this island chain delivers sweeping views, abundant marine life, and refreshingly mild summer weather. In July and August, long breezy sunny days make it easy to go whale watching, kayaking, and relishing that laid-back island life.
Just 45 minutes from Anchorage, Girdwood is the gateway to Alaska’s stunning glaciers, vibrant alpine meadows, and lush rainforest trails. Enjoy hiking beneath towering peaks, breathtaking glacier views, and an authentic wilderness experience away from the crowds.
Dodge the heat while diving into Seattle’s vibrant food markets, sprawling parks, and waterfront fun. Cool breezes from Puget Sound and nearby mountains keep summers fresh. Expect city buzz, ferry rides, and nature all in one place.
Acadia blends dramatic ocean cliffs with forested mountain trails, all just outside Bar Harbor. July brings mild, refreshing weather—expect mid 70s and cool breezes—ideal for exploring national park scenery, hiking, and coastal views.
With over 700 miles of scenic trails, Glacier offers wildflower-filled meadows and crystal-clear glacier-fed lakes instead of summer heat and haze. Enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery, spot wildlife, and take invigorating dips in chilly mountain waters.
That iconic fog keeps San Francisco cool, perfect during the summer. Ride cable cars, walk the Golden Gate Bridge, explore Alcatraz, visit museums, sample fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, and enjoy ocean breezes along scenic waterfront trails.
Aspen’s high elevation (nearly 8,000 feet) keeps summers cool—perfect for mountain biking, hiking wildflower trails, attending outdoor concerts, strolling art galleries, and stargazing under clear skies. Enjoy crisp air, vibrant culture, and endless mountain adventures all season.
Jackson Hole’s dry heat and mountain breezes make July perfect for adventure. Hike or bike scenic trails, raft the Snake River, spot wildlife in Grand Teton and Yellowstone, climb, paddleboard, or soak in nearby hot springs.
Bar Harbor’s walkable streets and harbor views invite exploration. Kayak coastal waters, enjoy fresh seafood at charming restaurants, and relax in the cool summer air, kept comfortable by morning fog and refreshing coastal currents.
South Lake Tahoe’s high elevation and nearby lake keep afternoons mild and nights crisp. Swim in clear waters, paddleboard, hike mountain trails, and enjoy cooler air while taking in breathtaking views under open, clear skies.
Whistler’s high-alpine setting means cool summer days perfect for hiking mountain trails, swimming in glacier-fed lakes, and exploring the lively village. Enjoy tons of dining, outdoor festivals, and low humidity—all without the typical summer heat.
Some of the best places to beat the summer heat in the U.S. include coastal towns like Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and the Oregon Coast, as well as higher elevation destinations like Aspen, Colorado, and Glacier National Park, Montana. These spots stay cooler thanks to mountain breezes, ocean currents, or northern latitudes.
Cool weather places to visit in July in the U.S. include Girdwood, Alaska (highs in the 60s), San Francisco, California (typically in the high 60s), and the San Juan Islands in Washington (low 70s). Mountain destinations like Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Stowe, Vermont also offer cooler-than-average July temperatures.
For low humidity and cooler weather, head to places like Aspen, Colorado, Flagstaff, Arizona, or Glacier National Park. These inland and high-elevation destinations are ideal for travelers looking to avoid both heat and humidity.
Yes. Coastal destinations like Camden, Maine, and Cannon Beach on the Oregon Coast are known for moderate summer temperatures rarely exceeding the mid-70s. Cape Cod, Massachusetts, also offers a classic beach experience without extreme heat.
Alaska is typically the coolest region of the U.S. during summer. Cities like Girdwood often see July highs in the low 60s. The Pacific Northwest (particularly Washington's islands and coastal Oregon) also experiences mild summer weather compared to much of the country.
Pack light layers, including breathable T-shirts, a fleece or light jacket, long pants for the evening, and a rain shell, especially for mountain or coastal areas. Don’t forget hiking shoes and sunscreen—UV rays can still be strong at higher elevations or on the coast.
