19 Amazing Places to Explore in June in the USA (from my own trips!)

With long days, big blue skies, and hours of endless sunshine, I think June is one of the best times of year to explore the States. From hip city breaks to gorgeous coastal towns, here are my favorite spots to explore during this summer month…

1. Mackinac Island, Michigan

I found that this charming, car-free island made the perfect early summer getaway – the weather was warm but not too hot, the island was filled with pretty lilacs and flower baskets, the ferries were running smoothly, everything was open, and best of all, it was just before the peak summer crowds arrived!

I also loved the lively holiday buzz, especially during the gorgeous 10-day Lilac Festival with its parades, concerts, garden tours, and the crowning of the Lilac Queen!

I stayed at the historic 4-star Lake View Hotel and spent my days hiking and biking beautiful trails in Mackinac Island State Park, kayaking along the coastline, watching cannon and rifle displays at the historic Fort Mackinac, browsing the cool little quirky shops and fudge stores (Murdick’s was my favorite!), and visiting the Original Butterfly House. 

Location: Upper Midwest Location Map | Vibe: Charming small-town feel | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F

My favorite highlights…

• Dining al-fresco at the nautical-themed Pink Pony Restaurant – I loved the trendy pink decor, the gorgeous lake views, the thick-cut gourmet onion rings and the house-made hummus!

2. Bodega Bay, California

 

Visiting this small coastal town in June was such a good idea—the cool, breezy weather and clear skies were perfect for outdoor adventures, the trails were lined with purple lupines, it was humpback whale-watching season, and I got to soak up the scenery before the summer crowds rolled in!

I also loved attending the events – my favorites were the rocking Sonoma Wild Music Festival and the buzzy Bodega Bay Community Farmers Market.

I arrived via the scenic Highway 1 and spent a peaceful long weekend there. I went on cool, fog-kissed coastal hikes at Bodega Head, checked out the farm-to-table restaurants, explored their cute collection of quirky independent shops and art galleries and traveled 20 minutes to sample the award-winning Sonoma Rosé wine at the nearby boutique Halleck Vineyard Estate.

Location: north coast of the USA Location Map | Vibe: relaxed with rustic charm | Avg temp: 55°F to 70°F

My highlights….

• Dining al fresco at Drakes Sonoma Coast – I loved the cozy vibe, crackling fire pits, and their golden homestyle potatoes and buttery, sautéed foraged mushrooms! 

3. Put-in-Bay, Ohio

I took a week’s vacation in this lively resort village on South Bass Island in Lake Erie and found it really came alive in June with warm weather, open-air bars, live music, and lakefront fun – without the peak-season crowds of July and August.

I also found some fun family-friendly events, and my favorites were the Ohio Islands Wine Festival and the quirky Pyrate Festw which was a lively annual pirate-themed celebration with costumes and all!

I took a 20-minute ferry from Port Clinton and went kayaking at South Bass Island State Park, took in the panoramic views from Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, enjoyed the lively waterfront nightlife along Delaware Avenue (catching Mad Dog at the Roundhouse bar was awesome!), and sampled the blushy Pink Catawba wine at the rustic Heineman Winery.

Location: Midwest Location Map | Vibe: laid-back but fun | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F

My personal highlights…

• Dining at the waterfront restaurant and bar The Boardwalk – I loved the friendly, casual vibe, the stunning views of the harbor, and their very generously portioned gooey Lava Cake dessert! 

4. Laguna Beach, Southern California

 

I took a  lateJune vacation to this picturesque coastal city and loved that the sun was shining, the ocean was just warm enough for wading around, pretty sea daisies lined the coastal trails, and the town was alive with early summer energy, cool art events, and beachside dining—without the full peak-season crowds (bonus!).

I also found awesome annual events to get involved in such as the large Sawdust Art Festival and the free Fete de la Musique which had an opening ceremony on Main Beach.

I simply kicked back and watched surfers at the iconic Thousand Steps Beach, Victoria Beach, and Main Beach, discovered local art galleries, hiked in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, and explored charming streets which were lined with chic boutique shops, trendy cafes, and oceanfront dining options (the stylish Driftwood Kitchen was a stand-out)!

Location: Southern California Location Map | Vibe: cool boho chic | Avg temp: 63°F to 75°F

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the boutique Hotel Joaquin – I loved the intimate boho vibe, the linen-draped cabanas and the early morning gentle flow yoga classes complete with beautiful ocean views! 

5. Chicago, Illinois

I thought Chicago really came alive in June – with lakefront festivals, open-air concerts in Millennium Park, boat cruises on the Chicago River, and gorgeous weather that made it perfect for exploring the city’s funky neighborhoods, parks, and beaches, all before the peak summer crowds rolled in and while accommodation was still easy to find.

I loved the awesome summer energy that filled the parks, patios, and streets and I got to attend the toe-tapping Chicago Blues Festival. The Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash was also on this month.

I flew into Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and stayed for a short city break. I dined al-fresco at the incredible restaurants (my favorites were Osteria Via Stato and Ema), hung out at the sandy North Avenue Beach, drank floral Hawaiian Rose cocktails at trendy Cindy’s Rooftop Bar, picnicked in Millennium Park and discovered the cool entertainment destination, Navy Pier. 

Location: Northeastern Illinois Location Map| Vibe: a mix of upscale and gritty cool | Avg temp: 64°F to 84°F

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the stylish Hotel EMC2 – I loved the moody navy and brass-toned decor and the cute little robot butlers, Leo and Cleo, who glided through the hallways delivering fresh towels and late-night treats to our rooms!

6. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts 

This picturesque vacation island made a dreamy early summer getaway – June brought long, sunny days, warm weather, fragrant rosa rugosa and gardens, and a laid-back buzz that made the beaches and island charm even more enjoyable.

It was also just before the peak summer crowds arrived, but plenty of events were already in full swing—my favorites were the Juneteenth Jubilee Festival, the Inkwell Beach party, and the start of the Edgartown Village Market.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky Summercamp Guest House – I loved the candy-colored decor, the lime striped deckchairs on the porch and the guest room iPads loaded with handy local tips, ferry times, and hidden beach recommendations.

7. Camden, Maine

I enjoyed one of my first summer trips in this picturesque harbor town, where the weather was mild and sunny, sailboats filled the harbor, wildflowers lined the trails in Camden Hills State Park, and the shops, seafood spots, and waterfront paths were lively yet still peaceful before the peak summer rush.

I also found the town came alive with local events and festivals, including the two-day music festival Jazz in June and the Camden Farmer’s Market.

I drove 3 hours 40 minutes from Boston and spent a gorgeous week here. I kicked back on sandy Crescent Beach, took a scenic schooner cruise from Camden Harbor, dined on seriously delicious artichoke fondue on the deck at the nautical Waterfront Restaurant, went for a night out at elegant Camden Opera House, and took a stroll through the pretty gardens of Merryspring Nature Center.

Location: Maine, Northeastern USA Location Map| Vibe: Quaint and quietly sophisticated | Avg temp: 66°F to 70°F

My highlights…

• Staying at the beautiful 4-star Relais Chateaux Camden Harbour Inn – I adored the chic modern decor complete with fresh hydrangeas and lilies, the in-room massage services, and the gourmet French cuisine, especially the silky Mushroom Velouté!

8. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

I visited this charming lakeside resort town in mid June and didn’t regret it—while it gets busy in peak summer, I found it much quieter this month with warm weather perfect for boating, hiking, and exploring the beautiful shoreline.

The town was also filled with lush greenery and lively music festivals and events. My favorites were the awesome Live on Lyon Street Dance and their buzzy Farmer’s Market.

I drove an hour and a half from Chicago and stayed for a fun long weekend. I took a boat tour on the lake, walked along the peonies-lined Geneva Lake Shore Path past historic mansions, sampled Cabernet Sauvignon at the boutique Studio Winery & Geneva Lake Distilling and took a guided tour of the sprawling Black Point Estate and Gardens (I was in awe of the beautifully preserved Victorian decor)!

Location: Upper Midwest Location Map | Vibe: family-friendly classic lake resort | Avg temp: 75°F to 81°F

My highlights…

• Staying at the historic boutique Maxwell Mansion Hotel – I was charmed by the grand old fireplaces, the Greek goddess statue-filled garden and the Secret Speakeasy which I found hidden behind a bookcase! 

9. Santa Barbara, California

I thought visiting this pristine coastal city during this month was just perfect! The weather was warm and dry with clear coastal skies, the beach temperatures were just right for sunbathing and surfing and it had a very relaxed early-summer vibe! There were far fewer crowds compared to when I’d visited in July and August too!

I also discovered gardens in full bloom and a fantastic calendar of events, festivals, and wine tastings. I heard from locals that The Summer Solstice Celebration, the lively Juneteenth Santa Barbara Block Party and Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival all took place this month!

I drove an 1 hour and 40 minutes from Los Angeles and stayed for a short break in the gorgeous 4-star boho boutique Palihouse and enjoyed lazy beach days at East Beach, wine tasting in the Funk Zone, scenic hikes in the Santa Ynez Mountains, sunset strolls along Stearns Wharf and exploring the State Street Promenade Market (loved the Sea & Sky Naturals stall)!

Location: central California coast Location Map |Vibe: laid-back coastal luxury | Avg temp: 55°F to 75°F

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at the locally famous La Super-Rica Mexican restaurant – I was a big fan of the funky decor with mismatched tiles and strings of paper flags, the smell of sizzling tortillas in the air, and their tasty spicy veggie tacos and warm Gordita Frijols!

10. Portland, Maine

I vacationed in “Vacationland” during the month of June and found the days were long and sunny (with just the occasional cool spell), perfect for exploring the waterfront and outdoor attractions—and all the food shacks and breweries were alive with both locals and tourists and there was plenty of waterfront dining to soak up the great weather too!

There were fewer crowds than just before the main summer season starts, but there were still some awesome festivals taking place, my favorites were the annual Portland Wine Week and the ethereal nearby water lamp festival. 

I drove two hours north from Boston and spent a charming week mostly relaxing on East End Beach, went on a whale watching boat tour with Odyssey Whale Watching and sipped Summer Ale at Shipyard Brewing Company, strolled the scenic Eastern Promenade, and explored the historic Old Port District with its cobblestone streets, cute indie shops, and excellent restaurants.

Location: Northeastern USA Location Map |Vibe: Coastal, creative, and relaxed | Avg temp: 55°F to 75°F

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at the upscale New American UNION Restaurant – I loved the trendy modern decor, watching the chefs cook in the the open kitchen, and my creative veggie dish, Hominy Succotash! 

11. Shasta Lake, California

I took a trip to California’s largest reservoir in June and found the weather hot and sunny, the lake full from spring runoff—perfect for houseboating, swimming, and jet skiing—and I could still enjoy peaceful hikes before the peak summer crowds arrived.

I drove 3.5 hours north from Sacramento and stayed for an idyllic week camping at Antlers Campground (there were also cabins and lodges to stay in). 

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the challenging 5.5-mile Castle Dome Trail in Castle Crags State Park which took me to the base of the huge granite formation Castle Dome – I loved the pretty purple wildflowers and the panoramic views of Mount Shasta.
• Going on a free guided tour of the Shasta Dam – it was interesting to learn how its hydroelectric power plant generated enough energy to power hundreds of thousands of homes!

12. Santa Cruz, California

When I took a mini-break in this vibrant coastal city in June, I found warm, sunny days, cooler evenings, great hotel deals, and fewer crowds before the July and August rush.

I also found there were also lots of fun events taking place such as the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Summer Concert Series and the LGBTQ+ celebration, Santa Cruz Pride.

I drove 1.5-hour drive south of San Francisco and stayed for a week. I indulged in sun-soaked fun at the Beach Boardwalk, hiked among redwoods in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and spotted tide pools and cute sea otters at Natural Bridges State Beach and exploring the buzzing downtown area filled with unique shops, local restaurants, and awesome nightlife! 

Location: central California’s coast Location Map |Vibe: surfy and cool | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F

My favorite highlights…

• Dining al-fresco at the Mediterranean & Afghan restaurant Laili – I especially loved the cute outdoor patio dotted with twinkling lights and my delicious leek dumpling and saffron risotto! 
• Watching surfers at Steamer Lane – I climbed the bluffs just above Steamer Lane and watched them for hours, the ocean views were incredible from there!

13. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

I found this beautiful coastal peninsula made the perfect June escape – the weather was warm but not humid, the beaches and bike paths were still peaceful, I managed to find some great accommodation deals, and the fragrant hydrangeas were in out in full bloom!

I also discovered the towns were buzzing with early summer events and I especially loved the popular Provincetown International Film Festival and the very cultural Hands on the Arts Festival.

I drove an hour and a half north from Boston and stayed for a beautiful short break mostly just kicking back and relaxing on Coast Guard Beach. I also managed to squeezee in biking the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail, whale-watching in Provincetown, wandering around art galleries in Wellfleet, and gorging on fresh food in Sesuit Harbor Cafe.

Location: Northeastern USA Location Map |Vibe: classic coastal New England | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous historic boutique inn Captain Freeman Inn – I adored eating a gourmet breakfast on the cute veranda each morning!
• Visiting the community-focused Chatham Farmers Market – the artisan Brewster Coffee Company Stall was a highlight for me!

14. Dillon, Colorado 

This picturesque mountain town was an awesome place to explore in June—the weather was mild and sunny, snowmelt filled Dillon Reservoir for kayaking, paddle-boarding, and boat tours, wildflowers brightened the trails, and the thinner crowds made it even better before peak summer hit.

I saw that the town hosted lively concerts at the Dillon Amphitheater and I loved attending the weekly Farmers Market too and soaking up the welcoming small town vibes!

I drove 70-miles from Denver (which took 1 hour and 20 minutes) and I went camping at Dillon Lake Campground for five days. I explored the charming Main Street of nearby Frisco, hiked along the Ptarmigan Trail, visited the cool Pug Ryan’s Brewery and went boating, biking and kayaking!

Location: Western USA Location Map |Vibe: outdoorsy, family-friendly | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the leisurely 5.5 mile Dillon Reservoir Loop Trail which took me on a scenic loop around the picturesque reservoir – I loved seeing the breathtaking vistas of the Tenmile Range!

15. Long Beach Island, New Jersey

I thought this barrier island was especially wonderful during the month of June! I found the weather was warm and sunny, and there were fewer crowds and better accommodation deals compared to the peak summer months.

There are some awesome festivals on and my favorites turned out to be the popular LBI Lighthouse International Film Festival, and the fun HopSauce Festival, which was dedicated to craft beer!

I drove two hour north from NYC, I visited ‘Old Barney,’ the iconic lighthouse in Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. I relaxed on the beaches, watched the surfers at The Spot, took a tour of the fishing docks in Viking Village, and discovered all the chic eateries and independent boutiques.

Location: Northeastern USA Location Map |Vibe: family-oriented and quietly upscale | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F

My highlights…

• Dining at the upscale farm-to-table restaurant The Arlington – I loved the cozy but trendy decor, the craft cocktails and their heavenly soft Bavarian Pretzels and Flourless Chocolate Cake!
• Having fun at the Thundering Surf Water Park, – it was great tubing down the lazy river, playing the 18-hole mini-golf course and riding the simulated surfing attraction the FlowRider!

16. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

I took a trip to this much-loved protected area during this month and didn’t regret my decision! I found the landscapes and the forests were at their greenest, the mountain laurel and rhododendrons were in full bloom, gorgeous fireflies lit up the forests at night, the wildlife was more active and the days were long and the weather was just perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting without the intense summer heat.

I drove two hours from Ashville and stayed for a wonderful five days. I went on wildflower-filled hikes to Laurel Falls, gorgeous scenic drives through Cades Cove, attended synchronous fireflies at Elkmont, and wildlife spotted along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Location: Southeastern USA Location Map |Vibe: nature-rich, and family-friendly | Avg temp: 59°F to 84°F

My favourite highlights… 

• Camping at the shady Smokemont Campground campground and waking up each morning surrounded by Red Maples, Yellow Birches and towering White Oaks and the “dawn chorus” of the native birds!

17. Taos, New Mexico

I found this historic town to be a unique place to explore in June—the weather was warm, dry, and sunny, wildflowers lined the high-desert trails, art festivals and farmers’ markets brought a burst of local color, and I could enjoy it all without the peak summer crowds.

I discovered there were festivals galore this month, including “Music on the Mesa” and the “Toast of Taos Wine Festival and Golf Tournament,” along with cultural events such as the fun “San Antonio Feast Day” and “San Juan Feast Day” at Taos Pueblo.

I drove 2.5 hours from Albuquerque and stayed for an extraordinary three days. I went for a scenic drives along the Enchanted Circle, hiked in Carson National Forest, visited the ancient Taos Pueblo, and went for interesting art walks through the historic Taos Plaza and Harwood Museum of Art.

Location: Southwestern USA Location Map |Vibe: arty with a creative soul| Avg temp: 79°F to 84°F

My personal highlights… 

• Dining on the locally famous yellow and blue cornbread and roasted beets at the fabulous organic restaurant The Love Apple. 

18. Hood River, Oregon

I loved visiting this charming small town in June—long, warm, and breezy days were perfect for watching windsurfers on the Columbia River and hiking to waterfalls, the lavender had started to bloom, and the orchards and wineries along the scenic Hood River Fruit Loop were bursting with color, all without the peak summer crowds.

My personal highlights… 

•  Staying at the Insta-worthy Hood River Hotel – the eclectic decor even included vintage stuffed moose heads and old leather suitcases!  

19. Yosemite National Park

I love visiting this much-loved protected park in early summer—long, warm sunny days (with a few cool evenings), roaring waterfalls from snowmelt, fully open roads and high-country trails like Glacier Point and Tioga Pass, blooming wildflowers in Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows, and peaceful hikes before the midsummer crowds arrive.

It was also an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as the black bears and deer were more active and I loved stargazing in the clear night skies as well! 

I drove 3 and a half hours from San Francisco and stayed for an incredible four days. I saw Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall at their fullest, hiked the incredible Mist Trail and Sentinel Dome and went rafting on the Merced River.

Location: East-central California Location Map |Vibe: Serene and majestic | Avg temp: 75°F to 84°F

My highlights… 

• Staying at the 4 star Tenaya at Yosemite – I loved the Insta-worthy contemporary decor especially the jaw-dropping lobby which had huge front windows!