25 Best Places To Travel In The USA In June

With long days, big blue skies, and hours of endless sunshine, I think June is one of the best times of year to explore the States. From hip city breaks to gorgeous coastal towns, here are my favorite spots to explore during this summer month…

1. Mackinac Island, Michigan

I found that this charming, car-free island made the perfect early summer getaway – the weather was warm but not too hot, the island was bursting with blooming lilacs and flower baskets, the ferries were running smoothly, everything was open, and best of all, it was just before the peak summer crowds arrived!

I also loved the lively holiday buzz, especially during the gorgeous 10-day Lilac Festival with its parades, concerts, garden tours, and the crowning of the Lilac Queen!

I stayed at the historic 4-star Lake View Hotel and spent my days hiking and biking beautiful trails in Mackinac Island State Park, kayaking along the coastline, watching cannon and rifle displays at the historic Fort Mackinac, browsing the cool little quirky shops and fudge stores (Murdick’s was my favorite!), and visiting the Original Butterfly House. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 7200 Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
• Location: Upper Midwest 
• Location Map
• Vibe: Charming with a relaxed small-town feel
• Average June temperatures – 18°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining al-fresco at the nautical-themed Pink Pony Restaurant – I loved the trendy pink decor, the gorgeous lake views, the gourmet onion rings and the house-made hummus!

2. Bodega Bay, California

Visiting this small coastal town in June was such a good idea—the cool, breezy weather and clear skies were perfect for outdoor adventures, the trails were lined with wildflowers, it was whale watching season, and I got to soak up the scenery before the summer crowds rolled in!

I also loved attending the events – my favorites were the rocking Sonoma Wild Music Festival and the buzzy Bodega Bay Community Farmers Market.

I drove 90 minutes north of San Francisco on Highway 101 and spent a peaceful long weekend there. I went on cool, fog-kissed coastal hikes at Bodega Head, spotted migrating gray whales from Bodega Head, dined at the farm-to-table restaurants, went wine tasting and explored their cute collection of quirky independent shops and art galleries.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 913 CA-1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923
• Location: north coast of the USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: relaxed with touch of rustic charm
• Average temperature – 13°C to 21°C

My highlights….

• Tasting the award-winning crisp Sonoma Rosé wine at the boutique Halleck Vineyard Estate 
• Dining al fresco at Drakes Sonoma Coast – I loved their rustic-chic decor, cozy fire pits, and their delicious homestyle potatoes and sautéed foraged mushrooms! 

3. Put-in-Bay, Ohio

I took a vacation in this lively resort village on South Bass Island in Lake Erie and found it really came alive in June with warm weather, open-air bars, live music, and lakefront fun – without the peak-season crowds of July and August.

I also found some fun family-friendly events, and my favorites were the Ohio Islands Wine Festival, Founder’s Day, and the quirky Pyrate Fest—a lively annual pirate-themed celebration with costumes and all!

I took a 20-minute ferry from Port Clinton and stayed for a long weekend, kayaking at South Bass Island State Park, soaking up panoramic views from Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, enjoying the lively waterfront nightlife along Delaware Avenue, and tasting delicious Pink Catawba wine at the rustic Heineman Winery.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 440 Loraine Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
• Location: Midwest
• Location Map
• Vibe: laid-back but with a fun island party atmosphere
• Average temperatures – 18°C to 24°C

My personal highlights…

• Dining at the waterfront restaurant and bar The Boardwalk – I loved the friendly, casual vibe, the stunning views of the harbor, and their generously portioned Lava Cake dessert! 
• Catching the live country band, ‘The Warped’ at the iconic circular-shaped Roundhouse Bar – I really liked the cool retro decor and the unique open-air setting!

4. Laguna Beach, Southern California

I took a June vacation to this picturesque coastal city and loved that the sun was shining, the ocean was warm enough for swimming and surfing, wildflowers lined the coastal trails, and the town buzzed with early summer energy, art events, and beachside dining—without the full peak-season crowds (bonus!).

I also found awesome annual events to get involved in such as the large Sawdust Art Festival, the free Fete de la Musique which had an opening ceremony on Main Beach.

When here, I relaxed and watched surfers at the iconic Thousand Steps Beach, Victoria Beach, and Main Beach, discovered local art galleries, hiked in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, and explored charming streets which were lined with chic boutique shops, trendy cafes, and awesome oceanfront dining options.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 381 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
• Location Map
• Average temperatures -17°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the unique boutique gem Hotel Joaquin – I loved the intimate boho vibe, the gorgeous custom furnishings, the early morning yoga classes and the beautiful ocean views! 

5. Chicago, Illinois

I thought Chicago really came alive during this month! It burst to life with lakefront festivals, open-air concerts in Millennium Park, boat cruises on the Chicago River, and the gorgeous weather was perfect for exploring the funky neighborhoods, parks and beaches. There were fewer crowds just before the peak summer rush and accommodation was easier to find too.

I loved buzzing energy that filled the parks, patios, and streets and my favorite events were the toe-tapping Chicago Blues Festival and the awesome Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash music festival, 

I flew into Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and stayed for a fun four days. I dined al-fresco at the incredible restaurants (my favorites were Osteria Via Stato and Ema), hung out at the sandy North Avenue Beach, strolled along the scenic waterfronts, picnicked in Millennium Park and discovered the buzzing entertainment destination, Navy Pier. 

• Visitors Center Address: 77 E. Randolph St. Chicago
• Location Map
• Vibe: Vibrant and energetic
• Average temperatures – 18°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the Hotel EMC2 – I loved the super sexy and trendy decor and the awesome robot butlers, named Leo and Cleo, which roamed the hallways delivering things to our guest room! 
• Visiting the stylish Cindy’s Rooftop Bar – I was a big fan of the trendy decor, the breathtaking views and the great hand-crafted cocktails, especially the floral Hawaiian Rose cocktail!

6. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts 

This picturesque vacation island made a dreamy early summer vacation! In June, I discovered that the days were long, the temperatures were warm, and there was plenty of sunshine to enjoy the gorgeous beaches, the hydrangeas and gardens were in full bloom, and the island buzzed with early summer charm!

It was also thankfully just before the crowds of the peak summer months arrived, but there were still many events in full swing – my favorite was the Juneteenth Jubilee Festival, the Inkwell Beach party and the start of the Edgartown Village Market.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 29 Church St, Edgartown, MA 02539
• Location: Off the southern coast of Massachusetts in the Northeastern USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Upscale, with a classic New England coastal feel
• Average temperature – 15°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the quaint and historic Summercamp Guest House – I loved the quirky and colorful decor, ocean views and the in-room tech such as the cool iPads which came loaded with handy area information! 
• Going on a Martha’s Vineyard Tour and exploring the historic sites – I especially loved the wonderful Oldest House and its rustic furnishings and large central chimney, the interesting Old Mill, and the photogenic Edgartown Harbor Lighthouse where we climbed the spiral staircase to see the observation deck! 

7. Camden, Maine

I really enjoyed my early summer trip to this picturesque harbor town! I found that during this month the weather was mild and sunny, the harbor was buzzing with sailboats, pretty wildflowers dotted the trails of Camden Hills State Park, and the town’s shops, seafood spots, and waterfront paths were lively yet peaceful before the peak summer crowds arrive.

I also found the town came alive with local events and festivals, including the two-day music festival Jazz in June and Haddon Heights Farmers Market and Merchantville Farmers Market.

When here, I hiked the scenic trails, relaxed on the sandy Crescent Beach, attended a performance at the elegant Camden Opera House, and explored downtown, which was filled with art galleries, historic buildings, unique boutique stores, and the scenic Waterfront Park.

I drove 3 hours 40 minutes from Boston and spent a gorgeous three days there. I hiked up Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park, took a scenic schooner cruise from Camden Harbor, dined on local cuisine at the waterfront Camden Deli, and took a stroll through the blooming gardens of Merryspring Nature Center.

• Visitor’s Center Address: Camden-Rockport-Lincolnville Chamber of Commerce, 2 Public Lndg, Camden, ME 04843
• Location: mid-coast of Maine in the Northeastern USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Quaint, scenic, and quietly sophisticated
• Average temperature – 21°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous 4-star Relais Chateaux Camden Harbour Inn – I adored the chic modern decor, the in-room massage services and the incredible gourmet French cuisine, especially the Mushroom Velouté! 
• Dining al-fresco on the deck at the Waterfront Restaurant – I was completely won over by the ocean views, the quaint nautical theme and their seriously delicious artichoke fondue!  

8. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

I visited this charming lakeside resort town and didn’t regret it! It can get busy during the peak summer months, but I found this month was much quieter with warm temperatures which were ideal for boating, hiking, and exploring the beautiful shoreline.

The town was also filled with lush greenery and lively music festivals and events. My favorites were the awesome Live at Lyon’s Street Dance and their buzzy Farmer’s Market.

I drove an hour and a half from Chicago and stayed for a fun long weekend. I took a boat tour on the lake, strolled along the flower-lined Geneva Lake Shore Path past impressive historic mansions, went outdoor dining in the lively downtown and took a guided tour of the sprawling Black Point Estate and Gardens (I was in awe of the perfectly preserved Victorian furnishings)!

• Visitor’s Center Address: 201 Wrigley Dr, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
• Location: Upper Midwest
• Location Map
• Vibe: fun, family-friendly with classic lake resort feel
• Average temperature – 24°C to 27°C

My highlights…

• Visiting the boutique Studio Winery & Geneva Lake Distilling – I thought it was awesome that it also doubled as an art gallery. I also really enjoyed its unique, creative vibe and tasting the heavenly Cabernet Sauvignon!
• Staying at the unique historic boutique hotel – Maxwell Mansion Hotel – I was charmed by the vintage-style decor, my huge comfy bed, the sculpture-filled garden and the Secret Speakeasy which I found hidden behind a bookcase! 

9. Santa Barbara, California

I thought visiting this pristine coastal city during this month was just perfect! The weather was warm and dry with clear coastal skies, the beach temperatures were just right for sunbathing and surfing and it had a very relaxed early-summer vibe! There were far fewer crowds compared to when I’d visited in July and August.

I also found blooming gardens and a fantastic calendar of events, festivals, and wine tastings. There was the wonderful Summer Solstice Celebration, the lively Juneteenth Santa Barbara Block Party and Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival, and the free Santa Barbara Lavender Festival.

I drove an 1 hour and 40 minutes and stayed for a short break in the gorgeous boho boutique Palihouse and enjoyed lazy beach days at East Beach, wine tasting in the Funk Zone, scenic hikes in the Santa Ynez Mountains, and sunset strolls along Stearns Wharf.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
• Location Map
• Average temperatures – 13°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the State Street Promenade Market – I really liked the charming outdoor seating, local artisan stalls especially the Sea & Sky Naturals stall, the handcrafted jewelry and the hand-made gourmet chocolate truffles! 
• Dining at the locally famous La Super-Rica Mexican restaurant – I was a big fan of the casual vibe, funky art deco decor and their very tasty spicy veggie tacos and Gordita Frijol! 

10. Portland, Maine

I took a vacation in “Vacationland” in June and found the days were long and sunny, (with just a few occasional cool spells) and perfect for exploring the waterfront and outdoor attractions, all the food shacks and breweries were in full swing and there was plenty of waterfront dining to make the most of the fine weather.

There were fewer crowds than just before the main summer season starts, but there were still some awesome festivals taking place, my favorites were the annual Portland Wine Week and the ethereal water lamp festival. 

I drove two hours north from Boston and spent a charming week there mostly relaxing on East End Beach. Although I also drank Summer Ale craft beer at the Shipyard Brewing Company, strolled on the charming Eastern Promenade and explored the historic Old Port District which i found was filled with cobblestone streets, cute independent stores, and excellent restaurants. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 14 Ocean Gateway Pier, Portland, ME 04101
• Location: Northeastern USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Coastal, creative, and relaxed
• Average temperature – 13°C – 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Going on a whale watching boat tour with Odyssey Whale Watching – it was an incredible moment to see humpback whales leaping out of the ocean (it was a great month for spotting them)! 
• Dining at the upscale New American UNION Restaurant – I loved the trendy modern decor, watching the chefs cook in the the open kitchen, and my creative veggie dish, Hominy Succotash! 

11. Shasta Lake, California

I took a trip to the largest reservoir in California during and found the weather was hot and sunny, the lake was also very full from the spring runoff, so it was perfect for houseboating, swimming, and jet skiing, and I could go hiking in more peace just before the peak summer crowds arrive.

I drove 3.5 hours north from Sacramento and stayed for an idyllic week camping at Antlers Campground (there were also cabins and lodges to stay in). 

• Visitor’s Center Address: Shasta Dam Visitor Center, 16349 Shasta Dam Blvd, Lake Shasta, CA 96019
• Location Map
• Average temperature – 27-32°C

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the challenging 5.5-mile Castle Dome Trail in Castle Crags State Park which took me to the base of the huge granite formation Castle Dome – I loved the pretty purple wildflowers and the panoramic views of Mount Shasta.
• Going on a free guided tour of the Shasta Dam – it was interesting to learn how its hydroelectric power plant generated enough energy to power hundreds of thousands of homes!

12. Santa Cruz, California

When I took a mini-break at this vibrant coastal city during this month and I found the weather was warm, sunny and dry (although there were some cooler evenings), there were some great hotel discounts and there was fewer crowds before the craziness of July and August.

I also found there were also lots of fun events taking place such as the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Summer Concert Series and the LGBTQ+ celebration, Santa Cruz Pride.

I drove 1.5-hour drive south of San Francisco and stayed for a week. I indulged in sun-soaked fun at the Beach Boardwalk, hiked among redwoods in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and spotted tide pools and cute sea otters at Natural Bridges State Beach and exploring the buzzing downtown area filled with unique shops, local restaurants, and awesome nightlife! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 303 Water Street, Suite 100. Santa Cruz, CA
• Location: central coast of California in the western USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Surfy, youthful, and laid-back
• Average temperature – 18°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining al-fresco at the Mediterranean & Afghan restaurant Laili – I especially loved the cute outdoor patio dotted with twinkling lights and my delicious leek dumpling and saffron risotto! 
• Watching surfers at Steamer Lane – I climbed the bluffs just above Steamer Lane and watched them for hours, the ocean views were incredible from there!

13. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

This scenic coastal peninsula was a great choice for a June vacation! The weather was warm but not humid, the beaches and bike paths were peaceful before peak summer crowds, I found some good deals on accommodation, and the hydrangeas were in full bloom. 

I discovered the towns were buzzing with early summer events and I especially loved the popular Provincetown International Film Festival and the very cultural Hands on the Arts Festival.

I drove an hour and a half north from Boston and stayed for a beautiful short break relaxing on Coast Guard Beach. I also squeezed in biking the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail, whale watching from Provincetown, browsing art galleries in Wellfleet, and savoring local cuisine at Sesuit Harbor Cafe.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 7025 Route 6, Eastbound. Barnstable, MA 02630
• Location: North Atlantic Coast of the Northeastern USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Relaxed, nostalgic, and coastal with a classic New England
• Average June temperature – 18°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous historic boutique inn Captain Freeman Inn – I adored the cute veranda, the pretty garden, the gourmet breakfast and the upscale unique decor!
• Visiting the community-focused Chatham Farmers Market – I really enjoyed the awesome and varied food trucks, handmade crafts, and picturesque setting. I especially loved the artisan Brewster Coffee Company Stall!

14. Dillon, Colorado 

This picturesque mountain town was an awesome place to explore during this month. I found that the weather was mild and sunny, the snowmelt filled Dillon Reservoir so it was perfect for kayaking, paddle-boarding, and boat tours, wildflowers dotted the mountain trails, and I also really appreciated the thinner crowds compared to the peak summer months too!

I saw that the town hosted lively concerts at the Dillon Amphitheater and I loved attending the weekly Farmers Market too and soaking up the welcoming small town vibes!

I drove 70-miles from Denver (which took 1 hour and 20 minutes) and I went camping at Dillon Lake Campground for five days. I explored the charming Main Street of nearby Frisco, hiked along the Ptarmigan Trail, visited the cool Pug Ryan’s Brewery and went boating, biking and kayaking!

• Visitor’s Center Address: 246-V Rainbow Dr, Silverthorne, CO 80498
• Location: western USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Relaxed, outdoorsy, and family-friendly
• Average temperature – 18°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the leisurely 5.5 mile Dillon Reservoir Loop Trail which took me on a scenic loop around the picturesque reservoir – I loved seeing the breathtaking vistas of the Tenmile Range!

15. Long Beach Island, New Jersey

I thought this barrier island was especially wonderful during the month of June! I found the weather was warm and sunny, and there were fewer crowds and better accommodation deals compared to the peak summer months.

There are some awesome festivals on and my favorites turned out to be the popular LBI Lighthouse International Film Festival, and the fun HopSauce Festival, which was dedicated to craft beer!

I drove two hour north from NYC, I visited ‘Old Barney,’ the iconic lighthouse in Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. I relaxed on the beaches, watched the surfers at The Spot, took a tour of the fishing docks in Viking Village, and discovered all the chic eateries and independent boutiques

• Visitor’s Center Address: 6801 Long Beach Blvd, Brant Beach, NJ 08008
• Location: Northeastern United States
• Location Map
• Vibe: laid-back and family-oriented
• Average temperature – 18°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• Dining at the upscale farm-to-table restaurant The Arlington – I loved the cozy but trendy decor, the craft cocktails and their heavenly soft Bavarian Pretzels and Flourless Chocolate Cake!
• Having fun at the Thundering Surf Water Park, – it was great tubing down the lazy river, playing the 18-hole mini-golf course and riding the simulated surfing attraction the FlowRider!

16. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

I took a trip to this much-loved protected area during this month and didn’t regret my decision! I found the landscapes and the forests were at their greenest, the mountain laurel and rhododendrons were in full bloom, gorgeous fireflies lit up the forests at night, the wildlife was more active and the days were long and the weather was just perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting without the intense summer heat.

I drove two hours from Ashville and stayed for a wonderful five days. I went on wildflower-filled hikes to Laurel Falls, gorgeous scenic drives through Cades Cove, attended synchronous fireflies at Elkmont, and wildlife spotted along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

• Visitors Centre Address: 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
• Location: southeastern United States.
• Location Map
• Vibe: Tranquil, nature-rich, and family-friendly.
• Average June Temperatures: 15 to 29°C

17. Taos, New Mexico

I found this historic town to be a unique spot to explore this month! The weather was warm, dry and sunny, the days were long, wildflowers lined the high-desert trails, buzzy art festivals and farmers’ markets filled the town with local color, and I could explore easily without the peak summer crowds.

I discovered there were festivals galore this month, including “Music on the Mesa” and the “Toast of Taos Wine Festival and Golf Tournament,” along with cultural events such as the fun “San Antonio Feast Day” and “San Juan Feast Day” at Taos Pueblo.

I drove 2.5 hours from Albuquerque and stayed for an extraordinary three days. I went for a scenic drives along the Enchanted Circle, hiked in Carson National Forest, visited the ancient Taos Pueblo, and went for art walks through the historic Taos Plaza and Harwood Museum of Art.

• Visitors Centre Address: 1139 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
• Location: southwestern USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Artistic, earthy, and spiritual
• Average June Temperatures: 26–29°C 

18. Hood River, Oregon

I really loved visiting this charming small town in June. I discovered it was filled with long, warm, and breezy days so perfect conditions watching the windsurfers on the Columbia River and hiking to waterfalls, the lavender had begun to bloom, and I was treated to the sight of the scenic Hood River Fruit Loop’s blooming orchards and wineries – all with much more peace than the peak summer months! 

• Visitors Centre Address: Hood River Visitor Center, 720 E Port Marina Dr, Hood River, OR 9703
• Location: Pacific Northwest region of the western United States
• Location Map
• Vibe: creative, small-town feel
• Average June Temperatures: 20 – 24°C

19. Yosemite National Park (California)

I love visiting this much-loved protected park during early summer. I discovered that the days were long, warm, sunny days (but with some cool evenings), the waterfalls were at their roaring peak from snowmelt, all the roads and high-country trails like Glacier Point and Tioga Pass were fully open, I saw pretty wildflowers in Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows, and I enjoyed hiking before the huge midsummer rush.

It was also an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as the black bears and deer were more active and I loved stargazing in the clear night skies as well! 

I drove 3 and a half hours from San Francisco and stayed for an incredible four days. I saw Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall at their fullest, hiked the incredible Mist Trail and Sentinel Dome and went rafting on the Merced River.

• Visitors Centre Address: 9035 Village Dr, Yosemite National Park, CA
• Location: east-central California, western United States
• Location Map
• Vibe: Serene and majestic
• Average June Temperatures: 24–29°C

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