If you’re anything like us, spring is upon us. It’s not easy to plan a summer vacation without having to wait. Let’s face it, Solo travel or a Family Vacation will require very different activities.
There’s a vacation for everyone, no matter how big or small your group is. We have gathered 21-holiday ideas that you will love, whether it’s domestic or international. There’s always something new to see, no matter how many places you’ve been to in the past. These ideas and itineraries are sure to inspire your next trip, whether you’re looking for an educational adventure in the United States, or if you want to visit a historic place like London or Cape Town.
We have a list of the top summer vacation ideas, from a scenic drive through Maine to a culinary adventure in Kuala Lumpur. Bon, voyage!
Explore The Civil Rights Trail
Follow the Civil Rights Trail to trace the steps of African American history pioneers. It spans 15 states and is filled with more than 100 museums, monuments and memorials. From Arkansas’ Central High School National Historic Site where you can tour the halls once taken by the Little Rock Nine to South Carolina’s Penn Center which was founded in 1862 as an institution for freed slaves.
Explore an underrated national parks
America the Beautiful annual pass costs $80 and provides access to more than 2,000 national parks and federal recreational areas for one vehicle and four people. Summer is the peak season for many national parks, so this is the best time to explore less-visited options like New Mexico’s Carlsbad Caverns and Washington’s North Cascades.
Go green in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s “green season” is the time when its extraordinary rainforests are at their best. It takes place in the summer months. You can see the wildlife and vegetation at their most stunning, and there are fewer tourists visiting attractions and tours.
Colorado blends urban and rural vibes
Are you unable to decide between urban adventure or the beauty of the great outdoors? Colorado offers the best of both. You’ll find stunning art installations in Denver like Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station. There are also hip industrial areas like Dairy Block that offer unique dining options. The Rocky Mountain National Park is a short drive away and is a great spot for hiking or camping.
Take in the beaches of Orange County
A beach vacation is the best way to experience summer vacation. There are many beaches in Orange County. The many cities of Orange County, including Anaheim and Irvine, are great for day trips to famous theme parks like Knotts Berry Farm and Disneyland. Or, you can drive an hour from Orange County to San Diego and Los Angeles.
Go down to Cape Town
South Africa experiences winter between May and August. However, in Cape Town, the average high in winter is in the upper 60s. This means lower prices and fewer people for popular attractions such as the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. Whale-watching is one of the most memorable activities in Cape Town. It takes place from the False Bay coast.
Jump over the pond to London
London is a perennially popular destination for tourists. There’s something for everyone. The Tower of London and Big Ben will amaze youngsters; the Insta-worthy neighborhoods of Soho, Notting Hill and Camden will delight teens; parents and solo travelers of all ages and ages will find plenty of bars, and open-air markets and other hot spots.
Beat the heat at Park City, Utah
Park City is most well-known for its wintertime appeal. It hosts the 2002 Winter Olympics, the Sundance Film Festival in January, and avid skiers who return year after year to the famous mountain slopes. It’s worth visiting in summer when there is less occupancy, but outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and golf are still in full swing. The charming shops and restaurants along Main Street don’t see their peak season crowds.
Take in Tanzania
Tanzania is a great vacation that’s well worth the effort. The best time to witness the annual great migration is late summer. This incredible spectacle features millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles moving through the Serengeti towards the Masai Mara, Kenya. You can continue your once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure by taking a break at Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches. It is easily accessible via ferry from Dar Es Salaam or by a short flight.
Visit a small, charming town
It’s possible to find some of the most memorable places right in your backyard. You might be surprised at the small towns you can find in your own state or another country. For inspiration, check out Oprah Daily’s roundup of small towns that are worth a visit.
