Where to Escape the US Summer Heat: 10 Destinations for a 'Cool Vacation'
So-called cool vacations—traveling to regions with a mild climate and refreshing weather—are becoming an increasingly popular way to beat the summer heat. The publication profiles the best "cool resorts" in the US. Travel & Leisure.
Instead of traveling to scorching cities or crowded, sun-baked beaches, tourists are increasingly choosing mountainous regions, coastlines, and forested areas where the daytime temperature remains comfortable, and a light windbreaker may even be necessary in the morning and evening.
Such trips are often associated with far-flung destinations like Iceland or the Swiss Alps, but they're far from the only option. You can also enjoy such a vacation in the United States—without visas or overseas flights. From lakeside cottages to small mountain towns, these destinations offer everything people expect from a summer vacation, but without the sweltering heat.
On the subject: 5 Budget-Friendly Vacation Destinations Abroad in 2026
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Photo: Noamfein | Dreamstime.com
"Jackson Hole is a perfect blend of rugged natural beauty and comfort," says Travel + Leisure expert Laura Asilis.
She says the mornings and evenings are cool, and the days are warm and often sunny, making it ideal for rafting, hiking, and wildlife watching.
She recommends visiting Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, as well as checking out the bustling Jackson Town Square, home to local businesses like Persephone Bakery and Jackson Drug.
The city doesn't stop in the evening either: the Silver Dollar Bar and Saloon and the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar feature live music and a noisy crowd.
After a busy day, you can stay at the Amangani Hotel – Laura assures that the views there are just as good as the service.
Alaska
Photo: Adeliepenguin | Dreamstime.com
Traveling through Alaska—whether by cruise or overland—remains one of the country's best cool getaways.
"Places like Sheldon Chalet, Stillpoint Lodge, and other remote lodges offer cool evenings and comfortable daytime temperatures for fly fishing, hiking, rafting, and wildlife viewing," explains expert Kevin Jackson.
For a truly unique experience, he recommends chartering a yacht and taking the Inside Passage route along the coast, where you can see glaciers, bears, and whales.
A more affordable option is a cruise along the same route offered by major cruise lines.
Berkshires, Massachusetts
Photo: Reinout Van Wagtendonk | Dreamstime.com
Just a few hours' drive from Boston, the Berkshires are a classic Northeastern getaway with cool evenings and a vibrant cultural scene.
“I often recommend it to couples and families who want to combine art, music and relaxation,” explains Asilis.
Things to do in Lenox include a summer concert at Tanglewood, MASS MoCA and the Norman Rockwell Museum, an outdoor picnic, and relaxation at the Miraval and Canyon Ranch spas.
In summer, local lakes such as Pontuzuk and Onota are popular places for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water.
Aspen, Colorado
Photo: Kwiktor | Dreamstime.com
"Summer Aspen is a dream," Asilis assures. She says the cool morning air, hikes through blooming meadows, and vibrant cultural scene make Aspen especially appealing.
"The Maroon Bells are stunningly beautiful, and after a stroll through the galleries, it's a lovely lunch at Betula," she notes.
Music lovers should time their trip to coincide with summer events: Aspen Music Festival and School (July 1 to August 23), Up in the Sky (August 7–8), and the JAS Labor Day Experience (September 4–6).
Among hotels, Asilis singles out The Little Nell for its atmosphere and convenient access to the mountains.
North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Arizona
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An unlikely option for a cool getaway is the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Situated more than 300 meters higher than the South Rim, it's noticeably cooler.
"The aspen and pine forests and the breathtaking canyon views make this place special," Jackson admits.
In 2025, a fire destroyed the historic hotel, but North Rim Campground reopened as a tent and RV campground in 2026.
Lake Tahoe, California
Photo: Mariusz Blach | Dreamstime.com
"Lake Tahoe offers alpine air, crystal clear water, and a relaxed West Coast vibe," says Asilis.
In summer, people here enjoy paddleboarding, hiking, and evening boat rides.
Warm and sunny during the day and cool evenings, perfect for stargazing or concerts. The summer 2026 program includes performances by The Black Keys and Jack Johnson.
The lake's water is so clear that it's perfect for swimming and boating. Or you can spend the entire day on one of the pristine beaches.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Photo: Paul Lemke | Dreamstime.com
This park in northern Montana is considered one of the best hiking destinations in the United States.
"When the Going-to-the-Sun Road opens (usually in early July), access to the trails is excellent," Jackson says.
Fishing, rafting, and cycling are popular here. To experience the cooler weather, he recommends heading to the eastern side of the park: there, at an altitude of almost a kilometer, it's even cooler, especially in the morning and evening.
Many tourists stay in the town of Whitefish and, combining their trips with a vacation on Whitefish Lake, drive to the park from there. Another option is the historic Glacier Park Lodge, with its impressive wooden architecture and mountain views.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Photo: Cory Hibbert | Dreamstime.com
The Willamette Valley, home to over 700 wineries, is rapidly gaining popularity. Here, you can sample wines at Soter Vineyards, Bethel Heights Vineyard, and Adelsheim Vineyard, followed by a hike through the Willamette National Forest, where you can literally "hunt for waterfalls."
The region is home to many cozy towns, such as McMinnville, that offer shopping and fine dining.
Another popular location is Newberg, home to The Allison Inn & Spa, which features a spa, restaurant, and spacious rooms with fireplaces and bathtubs.
It's warm during the day, but cool in the mornings and evenings, so it's a good idea to bring warmer clothes.
Telluride, Colorado
This picturesque mountain town is located at an altitude of 2600 meters above sea level. Summer temperatures here average 21–23°C during the day and cool at night, making it an ideal destination for active recreation without the heat.
In winter it is a popular ski resort, and in summer it is an ideal place for mountain biking and hiking.
"The river is great for rafting and stand-up paddleboarding," Jackson shares. He adds that the city hosts a variety of festivals throughout the summer, from baseball to jazz and even mushroom festivals.
Big Sur, California
Photo: Adeliepenguin | Dreamstime.com
Traveling along Highway 1 along the Big Sur coast is a scenic summer route of approximately 145 kilometers. Summer temperatures here range from 15 to 24°C.
On clear days, you can spot sea otters, explore the secluded coves of Point Lobos State Park, hike among the redwoods at Pfeiffer Big Sur Park, photograph the famous Bixby Bridge, or relax on the unique purple beach of Pfeiffer Beach, which is especially vibrant after rain.
There are plenty of hotels here, but Asilis highly recommends the Post Ranch Inn. She calls it one of the best places in the world to relax and completely recharge surrounded by nature.
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