22 Cool Weather Summer Vacations in the US

In August, temperatures reach their yearly highs across much of the United States. If you’re dreaming of a cool weather summer vacation without leaving the country, these destinations are perfect for you. Each of these locations boasts average high temperatures of less than 80° F in August.

New England

The Atlantic Ocean’s moderating effect, the elevation of the Appalachian Mountains, and northern latitudes make for mild summers throughout much of the region.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Make nearby Bar Harbor your home base. Enjoy hiking Cadillac Mountain, relaxing on Sand Beach (the water is too cold to enjoy swimming most days), and watching the sunset from one of the park’s many lookout points.
Average August Temperature: 75°/55° F.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Take a tour of the South East Lighthouse before walking down the 141 steps of the Mohegan Bluffs Staircase leading to a scenic beach. There’s plenty of fresh seafood to be had on the island after heading back up!
Average August Temperature: 77°/65° F.

Rangeley, Maine

If you’re looking for a cool weather summer vacation without the ocean, try Rangeley Lake. Hiking, paddling, and a few museums make for a relaxing rustic trip.
Average August Temperature: 75°/51° F.

Wells, Maine

This coastal town is filled with summertime fun, including amusement parks, golf courses, and boat tours. Portland is just a half hour north along the coast, perfect for a day trip.
Average August Temperature: 74°/61° F.

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is located on the eastern shore of beautiful Lake Champlain at the foot of the picturesque Adirondack Mountains. This quaint city of 45,000 people is home to festivals and celebrations nearly every summer weekend. A haven for hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all types, Burlington is the perfect setting for a long weekend at a bed and breakfast or an extended stay at a historic boutique hotel.
Average August Temperature: 79°/59° F.

Midwest

The Great Lakes and continental polar air masses keep the northern Midwest states of Wisconsin and Michigan cool during the summer, making them perfect vacation spots.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

There’s something for everyone in Milwaukee, including breweries, museums, architecture, and lots of restaurants. Stop at the Public Market, meander down the River Walk, and browse shops in the Historic Third Ward.
Average August Temperature: 78°/64° F.

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

Even if the temperatures climb above 80° F, there are three lakes and an endless number of rivers to dip your toes in. You can also kayak, fish, whitewater raft, hike, and enjoy fresh fish and locally brewed beer.
Average August Temperature: 76°/48° F.

Grand Rapids, Minnesota

On the banks of the Grand River, and just 30 miles east of Lake Michigan, is Grand Rapids—a paradise of outdoor sports such as fishing, golf, and hiking. Other attractions include the Grand Rapids Public Museum featuring natural history artifacts and exhibits celebrating the city’s legacy as a gateway to the Wild American West.
Average August Temperature: 76°/48° F.

Rocky Mountains

There are only a few months of the year that don’t see snowfall in the high peaks of the Rocky Mountains. You may encounter afternoon thunderstorms, so plan for a nap, museum, or tour after a morning of hiking.

Breckenridge, Colorado

There are plenty of adventures to be had after the snow melts. Go whitewater rafting, biking, hiking, and ziplining. Explore the town’s art district and take in a show.
Average August Temperature: 69°/40° F.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Winter’s snowfall keeps many of the park’s best sights closed to vehicles. During the summer, you can take in the Going-to-the-Sun Road, hike, kayak, and catch amazing sunrises and sunsets.
Average August Temperature: 69°/45° F.

Sun Valley, Idaho

There’s lots of history in Sun Valley, which was home to the US’s first destination ski resort. Beautiful mountains, resorts, hiking trails, art galleries, and refreshing lakes welcome visitors to this cool weather summer vacation destination.
Average August Temperature: 79°/42° F.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

For a truly cool weather vacation spot, try Yellowstone, where temperatures drop to near-freezing some nights. Of course, the trails and boardwalks surrounding the park’s hot springs, geysers, lakes, and rivers are must-dos.
Average August Temperature: 71°/37° F.

Pacific Coast

The Pacific Northwest and Northern California are ideal for visitors seeking cooler summer temperatures, thanks to the moderating effects of the Pacific Ocean, climate patterns like La Niña, and the region’s mountainous terrain.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Explore the rocky shore and sandy beaches Cannon Beach has to offer. Trails, boutiques, restaurants, and art all coexist in this oceanside town.
Average August Temperature: 67°/53° F.

San Francisco, California

Plenty of parades, festivals, and open-air concerts take place during the summer in San Francisco. Tours, museums, and world-renowned restaurants are all great ways to spend temperate summer days.
Average August Temperature: 68°/55° F.

San Juan Islands, Washington

For an island getaway without the heat, head to the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington. Local restaurants serve dishes made from native ingredients, artists create and sell their wares, and whale watching tours get you up close to orcas.
Average August Temperature: 72°/51° F.

Seattle, Washington

Head to Pike Place Market, drink locally roasted coffee, and spend a day on the beach in West Seattle’s Alki Neighborhood. There’s lots of great food, art, and nature to take in in this cool weather destination.
Average August Temperature: 75°/57° F.

Olympic National Park, Washington

For a rain forest that isn’t sweltering, check out the Hoh and Quinault Rain Forests within the park. Lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and beaches also offer visitors plenty to do throughout the summer.
Average August Temperature: 62°/44° F.

Lake Tahoe, California

Lake Tahoe stands out among several nearby Northern California summer travel destinations for its remarkably temperate climate and breathtaking scenery. Lake Tahoe averages just one day of rain each summer. Waterfalls, freshwater beaches, and towering canyons adorn a landscape carved into the earth by massive glaciers over millennia.
Average August Temperature: 79°/50° F.