7 Summer Vacations You Likely Haven’t Considered

Most people associate summer vacations with trips to the beach or to destinations like Walt Disney World, Yosemite National Park, or the Grand Canyon. There’s no doubt those can be popular getaways, especially if you have children tagging along. But there are other options to consider, many of which are more affordable and attract fewer crowds.

Big cities, resort areas during the shoulder season, and smaller towns a little off the beaten path can be fun to visit. Many make for especially great intergenerational vacations for families. Let’s take a look at some cities you might want to explore this summer.

Underrated Summer Vacation Destinations

• Nashville, Tennessee: Music City is more than just a country music town. There are loads of attractions to keep the whole family entertained. You can visit Adventure Science Center, the Grand Ole Opry, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, the legendary Bluebird Café, the Frist Art Museum, and more. And the good news is that Nashville has hotels at a variety of price points located all over the city.
• New York City, New York: Because residents of New York City often leave town for popular beach destinations during summer months, it can be a great time to enjoy the Big Apple. Many consider June to be an ideal month to visit. You’ll beat the summer tourist crowds but still enjoy warmer weather. New York City has so much to offer—enjoy a Broadway show, tour museums, the Statue of Liberty, or Central Park, or take in the view from one of the city’s famed observation decks.
• New Orleans, Louisiana: If you can handle the hot, humid weather in New Orleans, this is another city to consider exploring this summer. With Mardi Gras celebrations done for the year, you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds. Outdoor festivals abound, as do museums, restaurants, antique stores, and boutiques. And the National WWII Museum is a must visit.
• Jackson Hole, Wyoming: While you might think this popular celebrity ski destination is too expensive to consider, there’s much to do in the summer when rates aren’t as high. In addition to hiking, biking, boating, and fly fishing, there are lots of local breweries and restaurants to enjoy. Yellowstone National Park is also nearby.
• Stowe, Vermont: Many people associate Vermont with fall leaf-peeping getaways or winter ski adventures, but spring and summer are also good months to visit. One city to put on your list to explore is Stowe. You can golf, swim, hike, paddle, or zip line during your vacation. Disc golf is also popular here. Outdoor concerts, museums, and art galleries are plentiful, too.
• Lake Tahoe, California: This popular winter resort area is lots of fun in the summer months, as well. The locale is known for its beautiful aquamarine lake, where visitors can kayak. Other options include gondola rides, mountain hikes, zip lining tours, tubing, and gemstone panning. History buffs might be interested in a tour of the Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum. It tells the tale of the infamous Donner Party, a group of pioneers who were trapped during a difficult winter and had to resort to cannibalism to survive.
• Chicago, Illinois: While the least expensive months to visit the Windy City are January and February, they are almost always tough weather months. You can avoid the chilly temperatures by visiting in summer. Though you’ll still encounter more crowds than in other places, there’s so much to do—from visiting museums to watching fireworks at the Navy Pier and playing volleyball on the beach—you might not mind it. You’re guaranteed to have a good time in Chicago. This list of affordable hotels can help you start planning.

One tip that might help you make the most of your summer getaway is to talk with your primary care physician about starting a walking program. It can help protect muscle and bone health while also increasing stamina. That can help if your vacation will be an active one.

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