Looking to get away this summer?
Those looking for a quick summer destination within the United States may be surprised to learn some of the best options aren’t the cities typically heading the list. Still, there are plenty of choices available throughout the country, if you are adventuresome and keep an open mind.
Criteria that make for a top-flight summer destination include affordable packages available, weather, the type of available activities, and the comfort level of accommodations. For instance, Hawaii is typically a top travel destination for summer but is off the list this year because of volcanic eruptions and lava flows.
Here are the top seven picked by travel leaders.
Big City Feel
Washington D.C. and the northern Virginia area heads one list and is in the top 10 on another for affordability and attractions. This is a great family trip destination because of the number of historic sites and museums. Northern Virginia also has many wineries for those planning a trip for two.
New York City is also a multiple list leader. There are hotels in various price ranges, Broadway plays, historical tours and many restaurants. There are also plenty of transportation options to get around, and the weather is not as hot as in other places during the summer.
Las Vegas, Nevada, routinely tops good flight destinations for numerous reasons. It has a good airport, is easy to get to from most areas of the country, and typically has tons of specials for hotels and food. Plus, Vegas is fun with all the different themed hotels, casinos and shows.
Heading South
San Antonio, Texas, is on the list as a family-friendly option. It has all types of hotels from luxury, family-friendly and budget choices. There is a lot of history in the city with the Alamo featured. Plus, there is the San Antonio River Walk and Sea World. There is also an active music scene for night time entertainment.
New Orleans, Louisiana, is routinely on best travel lists. While it is almost unbearably hot and humid in the summer, the music and food more than make up for the heat. It took a number of years to recover from Hurricane Katrina, but NOLA residents know how to show you a good time. There are unique things to do, including ghost and historical tours as well.
Key West, FL, is the perfect combination of weather, beaches and a trendy downtown area that lands it on a top go-to list. Sites include Ernest Hemingway’s house, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Center, and dolphin watching tours.
The Georgia Barrier Islands offers many options. Tybee Island, noted for a quieter pace, has constantly rated as a top U.S. beach. You can watch wild horses on Cumberland Island or have a high-end holiday on St. Simons. Family fun can be found on Jekyll Island.
No matter which city you choose, U.S. getaways have a lot to offer for those wanting a different kind of vacation.
