Top 20 Amazing Places to Visit in June in the USA

With long days, big blue skies, and hours of endless sunshine, I personally think June is one of the best months to explore the States.

I love that this is the time of year when everything comes alive and most people are out looking for fun! From hip city breaks to gorgeous coastal towns, here are my favorite spots to explore during this summer month…

1. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a fun travel destination, a perfect blend of historical buildings, fantastic food, jaw-dropping waterfronts, and world-renowned museums.

In my opinion, the best time to experience the Windy City is in late spring and early summer.

Early summers mark mild temperatures hovering around 25 degrees, sparse crowds with soft rains, and clear skies.

I highly recommend dining at famed restaurants, meandering along the waterfronts, or whiling away a few hours in Millennium Park with a picnic —the city offers many things to do! 

• Visitors Center Address:  301 E Cermak Rd, IL 60616
• Average temperatures – 25 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Hanging out at the Riverwalk which is filled with bars, shops, restaurants, and great places to people-watch.
• Checking out the famous silver mirrored bean and capturing an Insta-worthy shot in Millennium Park.
• Visiting the trendy and stylish Cindy’s Rooftop Bar for breathtaking views and great cocktails overlooking the city.

2. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts 

I’m a big fan of Martha’s Vineyard, a beautiful and charming New England isolated island off the Massachusetts coast.

Martha’s Vineyard is a scenic natural retreat. I recommend exploring the eye-catching architecture, classic lighthouses, sandy beaches, and quaint gingerbread houses.

In my opinion, the best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard is from May to September, when the temperatures average around 23 degrees.

Early this month isn’t peak beach season yet, which means fewer crowds and cheaper rates. On average, summers are full of sunshine and stunning sunsets. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 24 Beach Street, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
  Average temperature – 23 degrees

My highlights…

• Wrapping up for a stroll along one of the beaches and escaping the hustle and bustle of the town.
• Discovering Polly Hill Arboretum, an Island landmark filled with shrubs, trees, and flowers from all over the world.
• Going on a guided tour and exploring the historic sites such as Oldest House, The Old Mill, and Greater Light.

3. Mackinac Island, Michigan

I love this place because it is a delightful departure from the modern-day hustle and bustle. Mackinac Island offers a slow-paced atmosphere with lashings of Victorian-style charm.

This month through to August is generally the best time to visit Mackinac Island, as this is when the weather is warmest, but mornings are fresh and cool (so I’d recommend taking some warmer clothes too).

Summer brings most of the daylight to the island with the cool breeze, great outdoor recreation activities, and gorgeous lilac blooms dotted throughout the city.

I recommend walking, riding a bike, sailing in the refreshing lake, or simply relaxing and unwinding. Mackinac Island has plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities to keep everyone busy.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 7200 Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
• Average temperatures – 21 degrees

My favourite highlights…

• Checking out Fort Mackinac which was founded in 1870.
• Discovering the gorgeous 146-foot tall Arch Rock, known by many to have superpowers!
• Playing a round at the Wawashkamo Golf Club which features many unique natural hazards.

4. Portland, Oregon

Welcoming, lively, laid-back, and trendy are just a few words to describe the cool city of Portland. It’s home to some of the hippest spots in the country, and in summer, the city comes alive!

This is when the days are long, temperatures are pleasant, low humidity, and the roses are in full bloom (you’ll see why the city gets the name of the City of Roses). This month in the Pacific Northwest is just lush!

I highly recommend visiting the International Rose Test Garden, savoring delicious farm-to-table cuisine, going for a picnic in Washington Park, and catching live music at McMenamins Crystal Ballroom. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 877 SW Taylor St. Portland, OR 97204
• Average temperature – 23 degrees

My favourite highlights…

• Visiting the beautiful International Rose Test Garden and admired the wonderful colors.
• Going on a boat tour in Willamette River, the views were incredible! 
• Attending a fun summer festival
• Having cocktails at the cool Indie spot the Doug fir lounge.

5. Bodega Bay, California

 

A popular Sonoma County getaway, Bodega Bay is a gorgeous coastal gem home to an art gallery, fresh seafood, quirky shops, and plenty of outdoor activities. I love its peaceful and laid-back vibe.

The Bay offers clear skies, rainless days, and not-too-hot temperatures during this month.

Summers in Bodega Bay are full of wildflower-laden coastal bluffs, and I highly recommend getting involved in the water activities on offer, tasting local wines, hiking the trails, taking in the wonderful views and dining at the farm-to-table resturants.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 913 CA-1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923
• Average temperature – 16 degrees

My highlights…

• Soaking up the picturesque views of Bodega Head and the beautiful seaside cliffs.
• Going on a private sailing tour.
• Tasting some delicious wines at Halleck Vineyard Estate.
• Dining at Drakes Sonoma Coast.

6. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville, the historic home of country music with chic neighborhoods and mouth-watering cuisines, has something for everyone year-round.

Although, in my opinion, the best time to visit Music City is from April through October. Summer weather kicks in this month, and temperatures hover around 30 degrees.

Despite the humidity and a few inches of rainfall, summer is the busiest season, with many cool events taking place. I highly recommend visiting all their museums, checking out the thriving indie rock and country music scene, and dining out on hearty Southern food. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 501 Broadway, TN 37203
• Average temperature – 30 degrees

My favorite highlights… 

• Exploring the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
• Walking over one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges, John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.
• Having Instagrammable moments at the popular Madame Tussauds museum. 

7. Put-in-Bay, Ohio

This is a gorgeous gem of a place, which I think is perfect for a low-key summer vacation. Daily temperatures average around 25 degrees during this month.

This quaint resort village is located on one of the most popular bass islands in Lake Eerie (the South Bass Island), and you can access it from the Put in Bay Ferry.

I highly recommend visiting the International Peace Memorial, the Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum, the lakeside South Bass Island State Park which has a boat ramp and a stone beach, the Heineman Winery, and the Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center where you’ll find a limestone cave and a butterfly house.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 470 Loraine Ave #267, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
• Average temperatures – 25 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Kayaking on Lake Erie.
• Attending a live music event and having a fun day outdoors in the sunshine.
• Going for a picnic in DeRivera Park. 

8. Laguna Beach, Southern California

 This is a dreamy beach town with crystalline waters, fine sands, and an excellent network of trails. Laguna Beach is one of the region’s most adored attractions; you’ll see why once you visit!

The mild climate, rolling hills, and sandy shores make for year-round accessibility to this lovely town.

I think the best time to visit Laguna Beach is early this month through mid-September. The annual daytime temperatures are pleasant enough, the waters are ideal for swimming, and the town is buzzing with the Summer Arts festival.

I would suggest seeking out the blooming wildflowers, lazing on the beach, surfing, or gazing at the scenic canyons. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 381 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
• Average temperature – 24 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Going surfing and relaxing along the golden sands at Crystal Cove State Park.
• Hopping on the Laguna Beach Trolley and being taken around the best sites.
• Going on a self-guided walking tour where I experienced the beauty of Laguna Beach at my own pace.

9. Camden, Maine

Camden is a charming New England coastal town in Maine. It’s a picturesque seaport with a rugged coastline, scenic drives, gourmet foods, outdoor adventures, and friendly locals.

I particularly love that the town’s harbor is full of sailboats, embodying Maine’s “Vacationland” reputation.

I personally think the best time to visit Camden is between this month and August. Most areas of Maine have pleasant weather in mid-late summer, with averages hovering around 28 degrees and a gorgeous display of pink and purple wildflowers.

There’s a ‘secret season’ between April and this month when the weather is relaxed and hotels are less crowded. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: Camden-Rockport-Lincolnville Chamber of Commerce, 2 Public Lndg, Camden, ME 04843
• Average temperature – 28 degrees

My highlights…

• Hiring a boat and checking out the nearby islands.
• Hiking up Mount Battie within the State Park to see the gorgeous views overlooking Camden.
• Dining on fresh seafood at The Waterfront Restaurant.

10. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

This beautiful lake and resort city in southeastern Wisconsin is not crowded and makes a wonderful early summer break. The temperatures are warm this month, around 27 degrees.

I love that the scenery is beautiful, and the vibe is peaceful. One of my favorite spots is a shore path lined with Gilded Age mansions, including the sprawling 19th-century Black Point Estate and Gardens.

It was once the fine summer home of the Chicago beer magnate Conrad Seipp and is now open to the public. I suggest taking the tour to wander around its perfectly preserved Victorian furnishings! 

My other favorite highlights include the gorgeous beaches, the Big Foot Beach State Park, home to some great trails and picnic areas, the Geneva Lake Museum, and the large, sprawling lake. You can go boating, paddleboarding, hiking, or biking around it.

I would also suggest finding time to visit a winery or distillery! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 201 Wrigley Dr, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
• Average temperature – 27 degrees

My highlights…

• Going on an adrenaline-pumping zipline course.
• Having fun at Timber Ridge Lodge and Water Park.
• Going for a massage at the spa in the Adventure Center. 

11. Santa Barbara, California

Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara has a Mediterranean-like climate throughout the year, and I love its dreamy, elegant vibe! 

With about 300 days of sunshine, remarkably consistent weather, and warm currents, Santa Barbara offers a relaxing day at the beach with pristine Pacific Ocean waters and excellent dining and shopping.

June temperatures average around 22 degrees, and if you visit towards the beginning of this month, you’ll see fewer crowds alongside the stable weather conditions.

• Visitor’s Center Address: State Street Visitors Center 120 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
• Average temperature – 22 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the gorgeous shoreline with a sunset kayak tour.
• Checking out the State Street Promenade Market filled with artisan stalls, performers, and non-profit organizations.
• Going on the fabulous Santa Ynez Wine Tour.
• Dining on tacos at La Super-Rica.

12. Telluride, Colorado

Located a 6-hour drive from Denver, this is a picturesque mountain town best known for being a world-class ski resort; I love that Telluride is filled with pretty alpine lakes, eclectic boutiques, and old mining roads. In my opinion, one of the best times to visit Telluride is from mid-this month to August.

If you prefer sunshine and wildflowers to snow and skiing, summer is the perfect time to explore this soothing town.

With incredible azure skies and average temperatures around 22 degrees, this month is the least humid month, and you’ll also be blessed with longer days.

Step out for a wild water rafting adventure, explore the hiking trails, enjoy the music festivals, or take a scenic gondola ride—there’s something for everyone to enjoy! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 236 W Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81435
• Average temperature – 22 degrees

My highlights…

• Going hiking and soaking up the tranquil and breathtaking nature. 
• Riding the free gondola up to Mountain Village and seeing picturesque views.
• Enjoying white water kayaking along the San Miguel River and paddle boarding on Alta Lake in the glorious sunshine.

13. Portland, Maine

I think this is a fabulous destination! Living up to its “Vacationland” nickname, the city of Portland embodies the charm of New England. 

With its ornate mansions, quaint buildings, lively downtown, long sandy beaches, and tiny islands, I am enchanted every time I visit!

Portland’s temperate climate offers mild winters and breezy summers, and this month to August is a great time to plan your trip. Summers are warm and mild, with just a few random cool spells.

I recommend lazing around on the beaches, swimming in the ocean, hiking, camping, boating, checking out the cute independent stores and immersing yourself in the incredible foodie scene here.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 14 Ocean Gateway Pier, Portland, ME 04101
• Average temperature – 23 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Hopping on the ferry to Peaks Island to dine on fresh seafood and relax along the beach.
• Discovering the lighthouses and becoming immersed in the history of the area.
• Going on a food tour filled with locally sourced ingredients and delicious meals.
• Dining on delicious creative and contemporary cuisine at UNION Restaurant. 
   

14. Shasta Lake, California

This is a beautiful but relatively under-the-radar spot in California where you can have summer fun without the crazy crowds you’ll find elsewhere in the sunny state.

Located 10 miles north of Redding, it’s the largest man-made reservoir in California and offers around 360 miles of shoreline and a tranquil vibe.

This month, temperatures average around 31 degrees, making it perfect for a hot summer vacation. The area has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from log cabins to campsites.

I suggest getting involved in activities like water skiing, boating, swimming (always keep safety in mind though), house boating, or taking a cruise up the Sacramento River arm of the lake for a beautiful and hot summer getaway! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 16349 Shasta Dam Blvd, Shasta Lake, CA 96019
• Average temperature – 31 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the magnificent underground landscapes on a hot day at Shasta Caverns.
• Having fun in the water with paddleboarding, kayaking and swimming.
• Being in awe of the Shasta Dam, which inspired Woody Guthrie’s song ‘This Land is Your Land. ‘

15. Santa Cruz, California

I’m a huge fan of this cool Californian beach town filled with sun and summer fun. I love its long sandy beaches, deep blue waters, and pristine marine environment!

I personally think the best time to visit Santa Cruz is this month when the weather is fine and dry (but with cooler evenings), but there are still plenty of hotel discounts to be found before the madness of the peak summer months (July and August). 

I recommend hiking the breathtaking trails, surfing the crashing waves, biking, riding the historic wooden roller coaster, and exploring the vibey downtown! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 303 Water Street, Suite 100, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Average temperature – 23 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Wandering along the beach boardwalk and discovering the fun historic amusement park.
• Shopping in Downtown Santa Cruz, which features over 100 unique shops.
• Admiring the beautiful plants and flowers at The Arboretum and Botanic Garden.

16. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Tucked away along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod is a favorite of mine. I love its unique, rustic architecture, windswept beaches, glorious dunes, and pretty lighthouses.

The most popular time to visit the Cape is during the summer. Though everything is at its peak from this month to August, the weather tends to be slightly cooler on the Cape.

Temperatures are pleasant this month; there are fewer crowds, reasonable room rates, and the hydrangeas are in full bloom.

• Visitor’s Center Address: Barnstable, MA 02630
• Average temperature – 22 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting the Chatham Farmers Market which was filled with local vendors, tasty produce, and food trucks.
• Checking out an uninhabited island in the middle of Chatham Harbor by a boat tour with Blue Claw.
• Exploring the 41-kilometer-long rail trail.

17. Rocky Mountains, Montana

Known as the ‘Treasure State,” I love this spot for its diverse landscapes, towering peaks, tranquil lakes, roaring rivers, stunning national parks, and lush prairies! 

Montana is a fantastic vacation destination because of the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. The Rocky Mountains in the summer offer long sunshine, warm weather, and minimal rain.

From this month to September, the snow has melted, hiking trails are accessible, and the roads are lined with wildflower blooms.

Many activities are also on offer, including canoeing, rafting, biking, mountaineering, craft beer and spirit festivals.

• Visitors Information – 1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397
• Average temperature – 23 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Driving along Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the US National Park and seeing breathtaking views. 
• Photographing the stunning Alberta Falls.

18. Dillon, Colorado 

This small town in Colorado packs a punch despite its size! It is located around a 70-mile drive from Denver and close to popular ski resorts.

There are plenty of fun things to do here in the summer, though. The area is home to Dillon Reservoir, Denver’s largest water storage facility. 

I would highly recommend exploring the cute Main Street of nearby downtown Frisco, checking out the Frisco Historic Park and Museum, hiking along the Ptarmigan Trail, visiting a microbrewery, taking a day trip to Breckenridge, checking out the great restaurants in Dillon, and of course just messing around on the lake!

If you’re an outdoor lover, I suggest boating, sailing, walking, biking, picnicking, paddleboarding, or kayaking. Camping is also a popular option. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 195 I-95, Hamer, SC 29547
• Average temperature – 20 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Discovering the miles of bike trails.
• Hiring a paddle board and having fun on the gorgeous lake.
• Wandering down Main Street and checking out the cute independent boutiques and restaurants.

19. Long Beach Island, New Jersey

I love this beauty spot, which is commonly referred to as “LBI” by the locals! It has gorgeous white sandy beaches, a family-friendly vibe, local boutiques, and chic eateries.

One of the best beaches along the East Coast, Long Beach Island has 345 days of sunshine. Summer is always the best time to visit the city, and I think it offers the perfect weather for outdoor and water activities.

You can expect primarily beach-warm days with balmy temperatures averaging around 25 degrees and a cool breeze from the Atlantic Ocean.

Whether you’re looking for a short break or a weekend family trip, this beautiful barrier island offers enough activities to entertain everyone. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 265 West 9th Street Ship Bottom NJ 08008
• Average temperature – 25 degrees

My highlights…

• Paragliding over the Atlantic Ocean!
• Visiting the beautiful Barnegat Lighthouse, a landmark symbol of New Jersey.
• Having fun on a hot day at the Thundering Surf Water Park which features many exciting attractions.

20. Big Sur, California

A world-renowned road trip destination and a paradise for nature lovers, Big Sur, is one of my favorite places in the world! It’s a truly magical place with spectacular beauty and the longest undeveloped coastline in the USA.

The 90-mile stretch is a long drive, but the stunning scenery, rocky bluffs, towering redwoods, and rolling hills make it worth it! 

Summer offers fine warm weather, with little to no rain, cool nights, and average temperatures around 24 degrees.

I love this for a beautiful break far away from urban stress, and I recommend exploring all the beaches, waterfalls, hiking, and tide pools here! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 47555 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
• Average temperature – 24 degrees

My highlights…

• Visiting Point Lobos Natural Reserve, one of the most stunning state parks in all of California.
• Taking an Instagrammable shot by the famous rock, Keyhole Arch, located on the magnificent Pfeiffer Beach.
• Driving over the iconic landmark, Bixby Creek Bridge, whilst admiring the enchanting views!