Washington’s Mount Rainier National Park tends to become icy and snow-covered early in the season, maintaining that state for around half of the year. September finds itself toward the end of when feasible visits can occur with assurance of warm days. This allows enjoying hiking and mountain biking amid brightly colored autumn foliage, a bonus of a late-season trip That said, March is also the peak tourist season. Major Puerto Rico beaches may see large numbers of international travelers escaping colder climates
Warmer weather and lengthened days make August the perfect time for outdoor pursuits. This roundup highlights national parks, cozy seaside hamlets, and cooler mountain towns where you can escape the heat`s effects. Summer festivals, seasonal delicacies, and other cultural experiences add to these destinations` appeal.
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Continuing farther explores vacation plans for families, romantic getaways isolated for two, and a few obscure places!
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Table of Contents
Places to Visit in August in the USA
Alaska
Explore the epic natural attractions and urban appeals of the Last Frontier.
✈️ Transport to Alaska | 🛎️ Accommodations in Alaska| Where to Remain | Places to Go | Things to Undertake
August offers a phenomenal opportunity to experience the spectacular magnificence of Alaska. Witness the grand mountain majesty at Denali National Park. Watch glaciers travel to the sea in Prince William Sound. Wait for whales to emerge at Kenai Fjords National Park. And all this is merely scratching the surface!
Visit the lush woodlands of the Alaska Tongass National Forest and delve into gold rush history in Juneau and Skagway. Spend the day relaxing in the Chena Hot Springs near Fairbanks as you wait for the initial showings of the northern lights at month`s end.
The annual Alaska State Fair, held in mid-Palmer, includes attractions like games, amusement rides, and enormous plant specimens. Kodiak, known as Alaska’s Emerald Isle, possesses verdant woodlands and sable beaches. Alaska is also home to noteworthy microbreweries, such as one of my favorites – 49th State Brewing with sites in Anchorage and near Denali National Park.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
This small island in the Great Lakes has a lot of nostalgic charm.
✈️ Travel to Detroit | 🛎️ Lodging on Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island in Lake Michigan transports visitors back to a time before automobiles. The primary modes of transportation are horse-drawn carriage rides along streets lined with vintage shopfronts. Bicycles can also be rented. Additional options involve a boat tour of the surrounding waters or a fishing charter.
Additionally, Mackinac Island is ideal for sunsets and sunrises. Why not start the day with a sunset kayak trip? The island also boasts the historic Fort Mackinac, now a museum. There are also 13 different fudge shops providing delectable desserts to sample and take home to share (at least, you ought to share).
San Diego, California
Surfing, hiking trails, and a diverse array of attractions all await visitors to sunny San Diego.
✈️ Air travel to San Diego | 🛎️ Accommodations in San Diego| Where to Lodge | Activities to Partake In | Eateries
A suggestion is made to visit San Diego in August with details provided about amenities like parks, art galleries, breweries, and restaurants that can be experienced during the pleasant summer months in this southern California city
Then, there’s the coasts! What could be better after a summer day of surfing than seeing the sunset over the ocean? There are lots of facilities for outdoor sports throughout the city, whether it’s pickleball or a casual game of beach volleyball. There are several awesome walking paths around San Diego as well.
Yellowstone National Park
The month of August presents a fine opportunity to witness the mighty geysers, observe wildlife up close, and explore the rugged landscapes found within the boundaries of the USA`s first national park.
✈️ Travel arrangements to Yellowstone | 🛎️ Lodging near Yellowstone
Yellowstone is among America`s earliest designated national parks, and it is easy to see why this natural area joined the system initially. Situated where three states meet ( Idaho,Montana, and Wyoming), each territory is esteemed for its natural splendor. Mountain ranges line the horizon, hot springs bubble up from below, geysers sporadically erupt, and bison freely roam the terrain as if they own this domain.
There`s no lack of outdoor adventures here. Over 900 miles of hiking trails wind through the woods and mountains. The routes range from simple paths near familiar places (like Old Faithful) to multi-day backcountry journeys.
📚 Related Topic: Items to Bring to a National Park in 2023
Mystic, Connecticut
Reel in a catch of the best of the East Coast at this historic seaside town.
✈️ Travel to Boston| 🛎️ Accommodations in Mystic
Few places capture the essence of New England’s ocean heritage like Mystic, Connecticut. This cozy seaside town is one of the best family getaway locations.
It`s expanded over the years but preserves itself as a picturesque fishing village. Take a stroll by the docks of the downtown marina, then enjoy a hearty bowl of New England clam chowder or locally-caught lobster for lunch.
The Mystic Seaport Museum is one of the top places to go with children or anyone who appreciates tall vessels. Step aboard one of these ships to be transported back in time to the eras of whalers and pirates. The museum also provides a wealth of information about New England`s deep connections to the ocean. The Mystic Aquarium is another must-see for families, showcasing whales, penguins, and more.”
The Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks hold a treasure trove of seaside fun, from basking in the sun to rowdy summertime festivals.
✈️ Flights to Raleigh | 🛎️ Lodgings in the Outer Banks
The Outer Banks region of North Carolina represents one of the finest destinations to visit in August for experiencing East Coast beach culture. The pale sandy beaches are perfect for absorbing the sunlight or, for the more energetic, an enjoyable stroll or horseback riding excursion.
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Two pirate-themed festivals occur in early September along the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The Outer Banks Watermelon Festival includes entertainment like competitions and games centered around the regional fruit. Shortly after is the Outer Banks Pirate Festival where pretenders of piracy from Blackbeard`s historic haunts participate in a range of pirate-themed activities enjoyable for both seasoned scoundrels and younger scalawags alike.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Find recreational activities and relief from the heat in Flagstaff, situated near some of Arizona’s most famed natural wonders.
✈️ Air travel options to Flagstaff | 🛎️ Accommodations in Flagstaff
Flagstaff`s high location (around 7000`) spares it the notorious summer heat in other sections of Arizona. It’s still warm here, but you can spend time outdoors without getting cooked alive! The city also has many urban conveniences. Have a pint or two at one of Flagstaff’s several breweries. There’s no shortage of trendy restaurants, either.
Flagstaff is also a portal to nearby attractions in Sedona. Additionally, Petrified Forest National Park and the Grand Canyon are about 1.5 hours away. A more exotic alternative lies just an hour south in Camp Verde: the Out of Africa Wildlife Park. You could, though, choose an even more authentic African experience in August…
The Oregon Coast
Oregon’s coastline has beautiful beaches, picturesque towns, and excellent cheese production.
✈️ Plane trips to the Portland area | 🛎️ Places to stay along the Oregon shoreline
The coastline of the state of Oregon is renowned for its pristine beaches and rugged cliffs. It nicely complements the interior`s mountains and forests and is well worth visiting in August. A particularly dramatic locale is Cannon Beach in Ecola State Park, made famous by the towering Haystack Rock formation.
Lighthouses line the shores in various locales. The community of Astoria is a cozy coastal destination. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is ideal for outdoor pursuits. Enjoy hiking routes and dune buggy rides at the location that inspired Frank Herbert’s Dune novels.
The town of Tillamook is another one of the top attractions along the Oregon coast. It’s a must for all dairy product enthusiasts. The Cheese Factory here produces the famous Tillamook cheese and ice cream. Who wouldn’t enjoy sampling said products on a warm summer day?
Montana
The Big Sky Country provides limitless opportunities for outdoor adventure and learning about the history of the American West.
✈️ Travel to Montana | 🛎️ Lodgings in Montana
There are also weekly events in DTLA like the Tuesday Farmers Markets and pop-up events like samba night at the music center. For more ideas on what to do, check out our guide to attractions in Los Angeles.
Montana has a low population density but possesses a rich cultural heritage. Several Native American tribes have considered it their home for centuries. Lewis and Clark crossed this epic landscape and modern visitors can retrace their voyage along the trail named after them. The fateful Battle of Little Bighorn occurred in Montana and a national monument now marks the battleground.
More recent settlements grew into the cities that now dot the land. The once sleepy town of Butte was once a booming copper mining boomtown. Kalispell serves as the best gateway to Glacier National Park. Billings is Montana’s most populous city with slightly over 100,000 residents. Each city has something unique, and you never lose that frontier spirit even in the most developed areas.
Yakima, Washington
The heartland of hop development has superb breweries, trails, and eateries, along with river floats.
✈️ Flights to Yakima city | 🛎️ Accommodations in Yakima| Lodging Options | Activities | Dining Establishments
Yakima is one of the smaller cities in Washington but worthwhile visiting in August. The Yakima Valley is famously known in the beer brewing world for generating approximately 75% of the country’s hops. Naturally, you can tour some excellent breweries here. Additionally, there are numerous outstanding wineries.
There`s also a wide variety of eating establishments offering every type of cuisine. Stop by a small family-run tamale restaurant for lunch or a trendy progressive eatery for locally-sourced, farm-fresh fare.
Places to Visit in August (International)
Ireland
Experience the Emerald Isle’s breathtaking scenery, historic castles, and lively pub atmosphere.
✈️ Flight Options to Ireland | 🛎️ Accommodation in Ireland
August is considered the peak period for exploring Ireland, though braving the larger crowds can be worthwhile. The climate is warm and (usually) tranquil during this time, creating ideal conditions for visiting harder-to-access places like Skellig Michael. It`s also a prime time for hiking across the lush hills spanning the country.
Irish pubs are ideal locations to conclude a day`s adventures or wait out inclement weather. The beverages are cool and the company is warm. Many pubs feature fine conventional tunes, as well as contemporary ones. Dublin’s pubs will be busy, but there are a few hidden gems farther from the main tourist regions. Furthermore, August is an ideal time to take an Irish road trip.
Istanbul, Türkiye
This city at the crossroads of Europe and Asia bustles with bazaars, remarkable buildings, and a history like no other.
✈️ Flight Options to Istanbul | 🛎️ Accommodations in Istanbul
Turkey is one of the preferable spots to go in 2024. Its most significant metropolis, Istanbul, is perfect for anyone wanting a taste of the exotic without straying too far from the normal. Take a walk at the Grand Bazaar and haggle for a good deal. Stop by the Blue Mosque to take in the stunning interior. Visit the majestic Hagia Sophia to see the final echoes of the grandeur of the Eastern Roman Empire.
The city’s heritage spans centuries, merging influences from Greek, Eastern Roman, and Turkish civilizations. Visitors can explore this epic history through experiences that transport them throughout (and even below!) the urban landscape. Make time to relax over Turkish tea or coffee and Turkish delight. Cap the day with a dinner voyage on the Bosporus Straits.
Marseille, France
Spend a day soaking up the sun or sailing the sea in France’s second-largest city.
✈️ Transportation to Marseille | 🛎️ Accommodations in Marseille
Marseille, France is a must for anyone who loves the sea. This historically significant city on the Mediterranean dates back to antiquity, yet it offers all modern amenities one could want. This balance makes it one of the nation’s premier spots.
Begin the day with coffee and a pastry, then explore the winding back streets of the Old Town (La Panier). You could also venture out of town for a little angling on the Marseille Coast.
Sip some wine a bit later in the day aboard a sailboat. Or ride the water taxi to several points in this port city. Calanques National Park is a fantastic place for a day hike and dip in the Mediterranean. Back in town, the perspectives from the Basilica of Notre Dame of la Garde are unequalled, as is the ornate beauty found within the church’s interior.
Scotland
August is an excellent time to hike the Highlands, sail to the Isles, and explore the cities of Scotland.
✈️ Air travel to Scotland | 🛎️ Accommodations in Scotland
Scotland has a magic about it that must be experienced firsthand. A hike in the Highlands transports you to a realm of near-mythical beauty, especially when the mist rolls along the mountains. Cozy seaside towns such as Oban are good jumping-off points for exploring the remote beauty of the Isles.
Scotland’s cities also offer fantastic places to explore history and chat with locals. Edinburgh abounds with cultural attractions. Glasgow often plays second fiddle unjustly. The city has plenty of attractions, from cathedrals to pubs to charming guest houses.
Try some authentic Scottish cuisine like haggis and wash it down with a shot of scotch at a local eatery. The Scots also have a proud musical heritage with fantastic traditional music sessions in many pubs.
Durham, England
This cozy town highlights a towering cathedral, rich history, and charming countryside surroundings.
✈️ Travel to Durham, United Kingdom | 🛎️ Accommodations in Durham, United Kingdom
Durham rarely attracts a large number of visitors and that is part of its charm. It’s one of the best hidden gems to visit in August. Here, you can experience the United Kingdom without huge crowds present in locations like London. Streets here wind their way up the sloping banks of the River Wear, with many charming boutique shops and cafes spread throughout.
The majestic Durham Cathedral forms the apex of the otherwise humble Durham skyline. This lofty medieval church houses ancient manuscripts and is the final resting place of the esteemed Venerable Bede, known as the father of English history.
August typically sees warm weather in England despite its reputation for rainy conditions. Taking a stroll along the River Wear is a pleasant way to spend a mellow summer afternoon before relaxing with tea in the early evening.
Yukon, Canada
This is the top destination in Canada for epic road trips and rugged natural beauty.
✈️ Travel options to Whitehorse, Canada | 🛎️ Lodging in the Yukon
Need some more inspiration for your upcoming LA trip? Read my round-up of the best excursions available from LA so you can experience even more of what SoCal has to offer.
Whitehorse, the capital city, serves as an excellent base to explore the region with many attractions of its own. You can kayak down the Yukon River, traverse one of various hiking trails, or enjoy the city’s musical scene.
Traveling to Whitehorse by air is the simplest method. However, a road journey to or from Alaska delivers one of the most impressive road trip experiences on Earth! Small towns and lodging are scarce, but there are many sites suitable for camping. Just bring ample insect repellent.
Prince Edward Island, Canada
Charming coastal towns, red sand beaches, and literary history make this Canadian island an excellent family vacation spot.
✈️ Travel to Prince Edward Island| 🛎️ Accommodations on Prince Edward Island| Location to Remain | Areas to Tour | Activities to Experience
Anyone who is familiar with and fond of Anne of Green Gables will want to experience this charming island in eastern Canada. The Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place will be the primary attraction for admirers of Anne’s experiences.
You’ll find plenty of other attractions here, too. Prince Edward Island (PEI) boasts perfect beach weather in summer and the waters are surprisingly warm for such a northerly locale. King’s Cove Provincial Park is remarkable for its red sands, caused by high levels of iron.
The city of Charlottetown breathes an old-fashioned atmosphere and cozy vibes. There are plenty of places for great shopping, dining, and sightseeing. You’ll likely start viewing things with Anne’s same magical wonder after a few days on PEI.
Mongolia
The capital of America comes alive in early spring with gentle pink blooms.
Italy is one of the best places to go in September because the summer heat is fading away! Tourist attractions will have fewer crowds, and you may even score some deals on flights and top hotels. See Mount Etna, take in a performance at Teatro Massimo, and enjoy Sicily’s delicious food and wine!
The state of Montana may be renowned as the “Big Sky Country” but, extensive as it is, it must take a back seat to Mongolia. The epic natural beauty of its endless grasslands defeats description, but there are also other landscapes here. The Gobi Desert in southern Mongolia is home to rolling sand dunes and rugged hills. The Altai Mountains in the western corner feel like something from a fantasy tale.
The Mongolian people, while having a history as formidable warriors, are unforgettably accommodating and generous hosts. Excursions allow visitors to ride horses on the grasslands or spend a night sheltering in a traditional round tent called a yurt.
You can also spend a few days in Ulaanbaatar, the nation`s most populous city. Check out the Chinggis Khaan Museum, take a leisurely stroll at Sukhbaatar Square, and sip coffee at one of the city`s numerous cafes. You can also get authentic Mongolian cuisine at local eateries (sadly, most “Mongolian BBQ” menus in America are hardly comparable to the real experience).
Kenya
Safaris are just the beginning of adventures awaiting you in Kenya.
– The largest group of Michelin-starred restaurants in Frankfurt is located in wealthy areas of the Westend: Restaurant Lafleur in the Palmgarten, Restaurant Gustav,Villa Merton, and Erno’s Bistro.
Kenya presents an exceptional opportunity for an authentic safari experience sought by many travelers. The nation`s location in the Southern Hemisphere means seasonal conditions differ from those of the Northern Hemisphere. While places further north experience intense summer heat, Kenya enjoys cooler weather making it an agreeable time to visit. Daytime temperatures usually hover around the mid-70s Fahrenheit.
While safaris are notable in Kenya, several other attractions exist there as well. Mount Kilimanjaro appeals to mountain climbers seeking an alpine challenge. Hell`s Gate National Park, despite its ominous label, provides safe hiking away from major predators like lions, including rock climbing at Fischer`s Tower. Additionally, Kenya boasts superb beaches such as Diani Beach, a personal favorite of the founder of Travel Lemming, Nate.
Nairobi and Mombasa additionally contain a wide array of urban amenities. Vibrant markets, beverage tours, and places significant in history are some of the highlights found within these cities.
FAQs About Taking a Trip in August
Where should I travel in the USA in August?
Locations in the USA that should be visited in August include Alaska,Montana, and Yellowstone National Park. These places are renowned for their magnificent scenery and opportunities to observe wildlife. San Diego,Flagstaff, and Yakimaalso feature outdoor activities along with trendy craft beer breweries.
Additionally, explore Mackinac Island,Mystic,The Oregon Coast, and the Outer Banks. These destinations provide coastal family fun and an old-fashioned atmosphere.
Where should I travel internationally in August?
Destinations in international areas that should be traveled to in the month of August comprise Ireland,Scotland, and Durham. These sites provide magnificent nature, lively pub culture, and imposing medieval architecture. Istanbul and Marseille are also excellent choices for those keen on history as well as anyone who delights in culture and cuisine.
Kenya,Mongolia, and the Yukon offer unmatched possibilities for epic adventures. Prince Edward Island is perfect for a cozy family getaway.
📅 Monthly Travel Inspiration:
- Destinations worthwhile in January
- Destinations worth exploring in February
- Locations to Travel to in December
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- locations=”” a=”” explore=”” href=”/post/103635/” in=”” may<=”” to=””>Locations worth visiting in September
- Destinations worthwhile in October
- Locales to check out in November
- Destinations to Visit in December
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I hope you’ve gotten some great ideas about places to visit in August. For more, check out our full list of the best destinations to travel this year.
