Best Places to travel in July in USA – Introduction
Welcome to the 10 best places to Visit In July in the USA! July is one of the absolute best times to take a vacation in the USA. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring rugged coasts, taking scenic drives through national parks, or soaking in the summer sun at a top vacation spot, this guide to the 15 best places to travel in July has something for everyone. Summer is a popular time to explore the country’s most breathtaking destinations, from great smoky mountains national park to the shores of the Oregon Coast.
With warm temperatures in the 70s, July and August are ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s hiking trails in Glacier National Park, horseback riding in Grand Teton National Park, or driving the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, there’s no shortage of adventure. Prefer a city break? Vibrant cities like Boston come alive in the summer, offering rich history, art galleries, and the iconic Freedom Trail.
Fourth of July fireworks light up the sky in many travel destinations, making it a great time to visit. For those on a tight budget, there are plenty of best cheap summer vacations to choose from. Consider exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, taking in the stunning views of the Pacific Coast Highway, or relaxing at a boutique beach resort on the Central Coast.
Now is the best time of year to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for an affordable summer vacation rental, a family-friendly getaway, or a unique vacation spot for families, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover the best summer vacations in the USA, where every destination is packed with festivals and events, scenic trails, and stunning views. Time to take a vacation!
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is one of the best places to travel in July in the USA, offering breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. This million-acre wilderness in Montana is home to glaciers, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes, making it a dream destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. July is the best time of year to visit, as all roads and trails are fully open, including the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers some of the most scenic drives in the country.
Why Visit Glacier National Park in July?
- Best time to visit for clear trails and ideal weather conditions
- Warm temperatures in the 70s (21-26°C), perfect for outdoor activities
- Access to scenic trails, hiking paths, and glacier-fed lakes
- Opportunities for kayaking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting
Top Things to Do
- Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road – One of the most scenic drives in the USA, offering stunning views of valleys, waterfalls, and rugged peaks.
- Hiking & Scenic Trails – Over 700 miles of trails for all skill levels, including:
- Highline Trail – Features mountain views and frequent wildlife sightings.
- Grinnell Glacier Trail – A challenging hike leading to one of the park’s last remaining glaciers.
- Avalanche Lake Trail – A family-friendly hike ending at a beautiful alpine lake.
- Kayaking & Boating – Paddle through the turquoise waters of Lake McDonald and St. Mary Lake.
- Wildlife Watching – Spot grizzly bears, mountain goats, elk, and moose in their natural habitat.
- Camping & Lodging – Choose from vacation rentals, park lodges, or campgrounds for a true wilderness experience.
Travel Tips
- Book Early – Since summer is a popular time, lodging and campsites fill up quickly.
- Arrive Early – Parking lots at popular trailheads tend to fill up before noon.
- Pack Layers – Even in July, mornings and evenings can be cool.
- Respect Wildlife – Keep a safe distance and follow park regulations.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, scenic trails, or a peaceful retreat in nature, Glacier National Park is the perfect vacation spot in July and August.
2. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park is one of the best places to travel in July in the USA, offering stunning views of jagged mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and endless outdoor activities. Located near Yellowstone, this million-acre wilderness is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with scenic trails, wildlife encounters, and some of the most breathtaking rock formations in the country. July is the best time to visit, as the weather is warm and dry, making it perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Why Visit Grand Teton National Park in July?
- Best time of year for warm, sunny weather and open trails
- Temperatures in the 70s (21-27°C) with cooler mornings and evenings
- Spectacular mountain views, scenic drives, and peaceful lakes
- Abundant wildlife, including moose, elk, bears, and bald eagles
Top Things to Do
- Hiking & Scenic Trails – Over 200 miles of trails for all skill levels, including:
- Cascade Canyon Trail – One of the park’s best hikes, with stunning views of waterfalls, wildlife, and towering peaks.
- Taggart Lake Trail – A moderate hike leading to a beautiful alpine lake with breathtaking mountain reflections.
- Paintbrush Canyon Trail – A challenging yet rewarding hike through wildflower-filled meadows.
- Scenic Drives – Take a drive along Teton Park Road or Signal Mountain Road for panoramic mountain views.
- Kayaking & Boating – Enjoy the tranquil waters of Jenny Lake or Jackson Lake with rental options available.
- Horseback Riding – Explore the rugged terrain on horseback for a true Western adventure.
- Wildlife Watching – Spot grizzly bears, bison, wolves, and elk roaming through the valleys.
Travel Tips
- Book Lodging Early – Vacation rentals, lodges, and campgrounds fill up quickly during peak season.
- Start Hikes Early – Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July.
- Pack for Changing Weather – Even in July, mornings and nights can be chilly.
- Respect Wildlife – Keep a safe distance and carry bear spray in certain areas.
With its breathtaking landscapes, scenic drives, and endless adventure opportunities, Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit vacation spot in July and August. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling summer vacation or a peaceful retreat, this park offers an unforgettable experience.
3. Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park, Maine
For those seeking a coastal escape with a mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm, Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are among the best places to travel in July in the USA. Located on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park, one of the most stunning national parks in the country. This region offers scenic trails, lighthouses, and breathtaking ocean views, making it perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. July is the best time of year to visit, as the weather is warm and dry, and the park is alive in the summer with outdoor activities and festivals and events.
Why Visit Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park in July?
- Best time to visit for warm, pleasant weather and ocean breezes
- Temperatures in the 70s (21-26°C), ideal for hiking and exploring the rugged coast
- Perfect for family vacations, offering both adventure and relaxation
- Opportunities for kayaking, biking, and whale watching
Top Things to Do
- Drive the Park Loop Road – A scenic drive through Acadia’s most iconic landscapes, including rock formations, forests, and the rugged coastline.
- Hiking & Scenic Trails – Acadia offers over 150 miles of trails, including:
- Cadillac Mountain Trail – Hike to the highest point on the East Coast for stunning views at sunrise.
- Jordan Pond Path – A peaceful, family-friendly trail with crystal-clear waters.
- Beehive Trail – A more challenging hike with iron rungs and breathtaking overlooks.
- Explore the Tide Pools – Visit Sand Beach and Otter Point to discover marine life at low tide.
- Visit Lighthouses – Take a boat tour to see the famous Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.
- Kayaking & Boating – Paddle along the coast or take a cruise to spot seals, puffins, and whales.
- Enjoy Bar Harbor’s Boutique Shops & Art Galleries – Stroll through downtown’s vibrant shops, restaurants, and museums.
Travel Tips
- Book Accommodations in Advance – Vacation rentals and hotels in Bar Harbor fill up quickly.
- Arrive Early – Parking in Acadia can be limited during peak hours.
- Dress in Layers – Even in July, mornings and evenings can be cool.
- Check for Summer Events – Bar Harbor hosts 4th of July fireworks, music festivals, and outdoor performances throughout the month.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation spot, an active getaway, or a relaxing retreat by the sea, Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park offer an unforgettable summer vacation in the USA.
4. Oregon Coast, Oregon
For travelers looking for a rugged coast, dramatic rock formations, and cool ocean breezes, the Oregon Coast is one of the best places to travel in July in the USA. Stretching over 360 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway, this region offers stunning views, scenic trails, and charming boutique towns perfect for a summer vacation. Unlike other beach destinations that experience intense summer heat, the Oregon Coast enjoys warm temperatures in the 70s, making it a great escape from high temperatures in other parts of the country.
Why Visit the Oregon Coast in July?
- Best time of year for dry, mild weather and minimal rain
- Temperatures in the 60s and 70s (16-24°C), perfect for outdoor activities
- A paradise for nature lovers, with endless opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing
- Less crowded than other summer vacation spots in the USA
Top Things to Do
- Drive the Pacific Coast Highway – One of the most scenic drives in the USA, offering stunning views of the coastline, cliffs, and sea stacks.
- Explore the Tide Pools – Visit Cape Kiwanda, Cannon Beach, and Yaquina Head to see colorful marine life at low tide.
- Visit Iconic Rock Formations – Stop at Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach and Thor’s Well in Cape Perpetua for some of the best coastal scenery.
- Hiking & Scenic Trails – The Oregon Coast Trail offers miles of breathtaking coastal hikes, including:
- Cape Lookout Trail – A rewarding hike with panoramic ocean views.
- Heceta Head Trail – Leads to one of the most picturesque lighthouses on the West Coast.
- Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor – Short trails lead to stunning cliffside viewpoints.
- Whale Watching & Wildlife Viewing – Spot gray whales, puffins, and sea lions along the coast.
- Visit Quaint Boutique Towns – Stop in Newport, Florence, and Astoria for fresh seafood, art galleries, and maritime history.
Travel Tips
- Book Vacation Rentals Early – Coastal towns are popular in July and August, so plan ahead.
- Pack Layers – Even in July, coastal winds can make temperatures feel cooler.
- Check the Tide Schedules – Some of the best attractions, like Thor’s Well, are best viewed at certain tides.
- Explore Beyond the Beaches – The Oregon Coast also offers forests, waterfalls, and historic lighthouses.
For those looking for a family-friendly summer vacation, a peaceful coastal retreat, or an adventure along the Pacific Coast Highway, the Oregon Coast is an absolute best choice for places to travel in July.