Your family likely plans vacations in June, July or August because of school schedules and pleasant outdoor conditions. However, the temperatures may get too hot in some areas and impact your ability to feel comfortable and adventurous. Luckily, there are some great cool weather summer vacation options available without having to leave the country.
Where is it cool in the summer and fun to travel to? Here’s your guide to beating the heat and getting the most from your trips. From the coast to the mountain tops, we know where to keep cool while having fun.
The Best Cool Weather Summer Vacations in the U.S.
America gets pretty warm in the summer, so staying cool might be challenging. Some associate the hot season with brutal weather and sunburn, though your family can flip the script.
These cities have cooler summer temperatures which allow you to have fun outside without melting. High elevation and coastal locations reduce the temperature compared to flatter inland areas.
Fairbanks, Alaska
Staying cool and dry in the summer means heading to Fairbanks, Alaska. It’s one of America’s northernmost cities, so the geography works in your favor for comfortable temperatures.
In 2024, the Alaska Climate Research Center said the mean monthly temperature was 61 degrees Fahrenheit — a 1.6-degree dip from normal.
Alaska gets a sunshine boost in the summer, which gives your family more daylight to enjoy Fairbanks. Visiting the town can include a day trip via train to Denali National Park, home to the largest mountain in North America. If you prefer to stay close to sea level, check out the riverboat cruises and Pioneer Park.
The entire state of Alaska is a great summer destination. Here are our favorite things to do in Alaska with kids.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor, Maine, is among the coolest summer cities for those visiting one of America’s most popular recreation areas. The small New England town hugs the Atlantic Ocean amidst Acadia National Park. Sea breezes and mild temperatures make the location attractive for outdoor fun all season. Expect highs in the 70s throughout the summer months.
Read Trekaroo’s full guide to visiting Acadia National Park with kids.
Nature lovers should prioritize time in Acadia by hiking the famous trails and driving the scenic paths. If you like a challenge, hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain to see the highest peak on the Atlantic Coast. The Wild Gardens of Acadia is one of the underrated spots, featuring 12 plant communities in under one acre.
Buffalo, New York
Buffalo might be famous for its hot wing sauces, but it’s one of the best summer cities in the U.S. for cooling off. The home of the Bills and Sabres has mild weather (summer averages in the high 70s) and cold winters because of the neighboring Lake Erie. Once the spring thaw arrives, it’s a must-see destination for families.
Visiting Buffalo should start with a trip to Niagara Falls. Take your kids to see this unique Canadian Border attraction and soak in the views on the observation decks or get soaked on a Maid of the Mist boat tour.
In the city proper, your family may enjoy a round of mini golf or one of Nickel City’s amusement parks. Check the city’s festival calendar to see which ones your crew would want in the summer.
Here are 20 things to do in Niagara Falls on a family vacation.
Duluth, Minnesota
Minneapolis often captures the attention of Minnesota travelers, but Duluth is among the underrated cool-weather summer vacations. While it is sweltering down south, Duluth enjoys summer highs in the mid-70s.
The North Shore city may be most famous for the Duluth Dylan Fest, which celebrates the legendary artist Bob Dylan. Each May, thousands of music lovers convene to enjoy the music of the city’s native son.
Besides music, Duluth has a long maritime history because of its position on Lake Superior. Check out the Split Rock Lighthouse to see Minnesota’s nautical past and why the structure was important for traveling boats. If you want an even higher city view, climb the 80-foot Enger Tower to see Duluth Harbor, St. Louis Bay and the lake.
Here are our favorite things to do in Duluth and the rest of the state of Minnesota on a family vacation.
Pacific City, Oregon
Inland Oregon can be scorching in July and August, so head to the coast and visit Pacific City instead. The climate stays relatively mild all year, making it a popular destination every season.
If you yearn for smallest cities with cool temperatures and great scenery this Pacific Ocean town is an excellent choice. Summer highs range from the mid-60s to the low 70s so be sure to pack those layers!
Outdoor activities highlight Pacific City, so start your trip with a drive down the Three Capes Scenic Route. This path encompasses 40 miles from Tillamook to Cape Kiwanda and breathtaking ocean views. Natural beauty attracts tourists year-round, especially at Cape Kiwanda and Haystack Rock. Sip coffee or a beer and watch the dory boats launch onto the calm waters.
Burlington, Vermont
Skiers flock to Burlington, Vermont, for a winter holiday on the slopes. However, the New England area shines as a cool getaway during the summer, too. Head to the resort town during the hot months for fun on Lake Champlain and the surrounding forests. It’s ideal if you want one of the coolest summer cities with an urban fabric and highs are typically in the 70s or 80s.
Lake Champlain is Burlington’s hub for outdoor recreation, so take a kayak or paddleboard on the clear waters. If you’d rather stay on land, the town has an 8-mile bike path for walking and cycling along the shores. You’ll find walkable streets and restaurants with tasty, locally sourced food within the city.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Steamboat Springs, Colorado, is hidden inside the Rocky Mountains, though it’s worth a trip from Denver. It’s another resort town where it’s cool in the summer and ready for families to enjoy. While the high temperatures stay in low 80s, you can warm up in the area’s geothermal hot springs and properly relax your body.
Here are more great Colorado mountain towns which are great cool summer destinations.
Summers in Steamboat Springs mean getting outdoors and enjoying the Rocky Mountain scenery. Once the snow melts, locals and tourists splash inside the Yampa River and observe majestic wildlife like moose. Whether young or old, the charming Western town has something for you. Steamboat Springs is famous for weddings, so take advantage of the beautiful backdrops.
San Francisco, California
Extreme heat can be common in California, especially when you go to inland areas. It’s become such a serious issue that in recent years, California has introduced the Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Program to help local communities adapt to rising temperatures.
However, coastal areas like San Francisco still make for excellent cool vacations because the Pacific Ocean provides relief from the scorching summers. The city’s warmest months are September and October, while the summer months are typically in the 60s and 70s.
San Francisco has a vibrant culture and long history, with days of attractions for families. Start your fun at the Golden Gate Bridge, which is almost 100 years old. The massive structure can quickly become chilly, so bring a light jacket in the summer!
This time of year includes baseball season, so enjoy a game at Oracle Park, exploring the city’s unique neighborhoods, or experiencing a cable car ride down to the wharf. We have a a great article filled with things to do in San Francisco with kids.
Port Townsend, Washington
You may associate the Pacific Northwest with rain, though summer is the dry season and ideal for outdoor activities. Stop by Port Townsend in the Puget Sound if you plan an Olympic National Park trip. It’s only a ferry ride from Seattle, making it convenient for residents and tourists in the metro area.
Fort Worden Historical State Park used to be a military base — now, it’s among Port Townsend’s featured destinations. History lovers can still visit old gun batteries and museums to absorb the site’s past.
Take a dip into nature by viewing Port Townsend’s beaches, forests and the local lighthouses. Head back to the city to enjoy the craft beer scene at the local breweries.
Morro Bay, California
The drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles is filled with dramatic Pacific Ocean views and Morro Bay is a great cool-weather summer vacation spot halfway between the two. This central California city is located off Highway 1 and is a world of its own. The volcanic peaks of the Nine Sisters line the coast and Morro Rock stands out like a beacon in the water.
Trekaroo has a great Central Coast Road Trip Itinerary.
Morro Bay State Park and the water combine for an outdoor lover’s paradise. Take your family for a day of boating, hiking and kayaking and you will likely see sea otters floating aroud. Hearst Castle is just up the road, as are a colony of raucous and entertaining elephant seals.
San Diego, California
San Diego is just minutes from the Mexican border, yet the climate feels more Mediterranean. The California town sits by the Pacific Ocean and is among the best U.S. places with cool summer temperatures. America’s Finest City averages 72-degree days during the season, so outdoor activities are on the horizon.
Here are all our favorite things to do in San Diego with kids.
Stay cool in San Diego by snorkeling or kayaking at La Jolla Cove. Calm waters and sandstone cliffs make it one of the most beautiful beaches you’ll see all summer.
Asheville, North Carolina
The Southeast can become hot and humid in the middle of the year, prompting locals to find relief in other regions. However, you don’t have to leave the South for a comfortable outing. Asheville, North Carolina, is one of the coolest summer cities because of its high elevation. When you’re in the valley, you benefit from the cool breezes.
Here are the best things to do in Asheville with kids.
A western Carolina trip leads you to the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is only five miles from downtown Asheville. This iconic drive takes you to the Folk Art Center, the North Carolina Arboretum and other essential stops. Make time to see the Biltmore Estate just south of the city. This historic mansion has a 90-minute audio tour to take you back in time.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
If you prefer fewer crowds, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, is among the best summer cities in the U.S. This Appalachian hideaway is full of history and aquatic fun on the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. Plan an educational trip for your kids, as Harpers Ferry was integral during the American Civil War and its preceding events.
Harpers Ferry is famous for whitewater rafting along the Shenandoah River. The rapids take you through downtown and let you view scenic wildlife, such as orioles and herons. If you love a thrill, go on one of the kid-friendly ghost tours around the old town. While those events are popular in October, you can attend them year-round.
Adventures on the Gorge in New River Gorge National Park is another great West Virginia destination for active families.
Boston, Massachusetts
The Northeast can experience heat waves like the rest of the country, but your family can enjoy a typically milder climate in Boston. Beantown has indoor and outdoor activities to please your crew regardless of the temperature. If you stay inside, visit the New England Aquarium with a 200,000-gallon tank and shark exhibits.
Have older kids? Here are our favorite things to do in Boston with teens.
Your outdoor itinerary starts at historic Fenway Park, the oldest existing Major League Baseball stadium nationwide. While the facility is old, renovations have made it feel updated and modern. Experience American history on the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile red brick path winding through Boston. From downtown to North End, you learn a lot about the colonial days.
Madison, Wisconsin
Wisconsin summers are pleasant, with June’s high temperatures in the 70s before a slightly warmer July and August. Madison is among the best places to spend your days because of its urban fun and recreational opportunities. The state capital lies on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.
When in Madison, take advantage of the pedestrian infrastructure and bike paths. The town has over 200 miles of biking and hiking trails, so traveling without a car is more manageable. Once the summer arrives, Madison hosts a large producer-only farmers market and fun festivals. From music to food celebrations, Mad City has something for everyone.
Tips for Your Cooler Summer Vacation
Planning for Miami and Minneapolis can differ significantly. How should you prepare for your vacation? Here are five tips when traveling to places with cool summer temperatures in the U.S.
- Smart packing: The temperature can fluctuate in summer destinations, so check the weather before departing. Your suitcase should contain clothes for any forecast.
- Indoor activities: Summer may be the wet season in your destination, so have indoor activities planned if the rain spoils your day.
- Sun protection: The sun can still burn your skin in cooler temperatures! Check the area’s UV rays to see how much sunscreen you need for the day.
- Altitude considerations: The altitude may surprise you in Steamboat Springs or Asheville, so monitor your body as you acclimate.
- Crowd control: The coolest summer cities may see high traffic in July and August, so book ahead or find alternative destinations.
I've loved writing my whole life, whether through personal blogs, news coverage or travel logs. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Brooklyn College in 2017, and in the time since then have written for dozens of publications across a wide variety of industries. I've also obtained certifications in Batteries and Electric Vehicles from Arizona State University and the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence from Politecnico di Milano.
In my time in the men's lifestyle space, I've covered everything from the automotive industry to hobbies and self-improvement. I'm also the father of a young son, and have recently been writing about my experiences as a relatively new parent.
Outside of Trekaroo, my writing has been featured by Car Mechanics Magazine, the National Motorists Association, MOTOR, Hennessey, BarBend, EETimes, Innovation News Network, ParentCo., The Travel Magazine, Duluth Pack, Washington Trails Magazine and more.
In particular, I've always been a lover of camping, hiking, backpacking and any travel that lets me explore nature and really get in touch with my surroundings. Outside of travel, I love raising pets, the New York Knicks, the Philadelphia Eagles (to the disdain of my New Yorker family), working on cars, gaming and spending time with family.
- The 15 Best U.S. Cities for Cool Weather Summer Vacations - May 30, 2025
- The 14 Most Accessible Cities in the U.S. - April 18, 2025
- The Best Skiing in the Northeast: 15 Must-Visit Destinations - May 9, 2025