Summer’s heat makes me yearn for a break. I dream of sun, new places, and memories to last a lifetime. July, the peak vacation time, opens doors to amazing escapes. Imagine the Outer Banks’ beaches or Europe’s lively cities.
I’ll show you the top 10 vacation spots for July. Looking for fun with family, a romantic trip, or outdoor fun? I’ve got you covered. Start planning your summer vacation and enjoy the sunny days.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the best vacation spots in the United States and around the world for your July travels.
- Explore a variety of destinations, from beach towns and outdoor adventures to cultural hubs and city breaks.
- Find inspiration for family-friendly, romantic, and budget-friendly summer getaways.
- Learn about unique events, festivals, and activities happening in these top vacation spots during July.
- Get tips on where to stay and what to do in each of the featured destinations.
Homer, Alaska: The Halibut Fishing Capital and City of Peonies
Homer is famous as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World” and the “City of Peonies” in July. It’s a bustling fishing town on Kachemak Bay, Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. The Homer Peony Celebration, from July 1st to 30th, honors the city’s 25 peony farms. These farms produce large, beautiful flowers thanks to the perfect conditions.
In Homer, you can see orcas and humpback whales in the bay. You can also explore over 80 miles of trails in Kachemak Bay State Park. The area is great for outdoor fun, like bear watching, wildlife cruises, kayaking, and helicopter tours.
Where to Stay
Homer has many places to stay, from RV parks to hotels. There’s something for every budget and taste. For a unique stay, try Within the Wild’s Tutka Bay Lodge. Or, book an Alaska cruise that stops in Homer.
| Accommodation | Price Range | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Within the Wild’s Tutka Bay Lodge | $500-$1,000 per night | Luxury waterfront lodge with spa, yoga, and guided activities |
| Homer hotels (e.g., Land’s End Resort, Best Western Bidarka Inn) | $150-$400 per night | Convenient locations, some with bay views |
| Homer RV parks (e.g., Ocean Shores RV Park, Oceanview RV Park) | $40-$80 per night | Scenic settings with access to amenities |
| Alaska cruises with Homer port stops | Varies by cruise line and package | Opportunity to explore Homer as part of a larger Alaskan itinerary |
Homer is perfect for those who love halibut fishing, peony beauty, or Kachemak Bay’s calm. It’s a unique and unforgettable vacation spot in July.
Portland, Oregon: Outdoor Fun and Waterfront Blues Festival
Summers in Portland, Oregon are warm and dry, with highs in the 70s. This is ideal for exploring the city’s many outdoor spots and festivals. Downtown Portland is famous for its tax-free shopping, food carts, and coffee scene. July is exciting, with the Waterfront Blues Festival (July 4-7) being a highlight.
The Waterfront Blues Festival celebrates its 37th year in 2024. It features over 100 performances across four stages in Waterfront Park. Artists like Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals and Lucinda Williams will perform. The festival starts with Oregon’s biggest fireworks display on July 4.
Visitors can enjoy a mix of blues, soul, funk, and R&B music. They can also try local food, wine, and beer. The festival’s setting is beautiful, with Portland’s bridges and riverfront as a backdrop.
Where to Stay
For a luxurious stay in Portland, consider The Nines Hotel or The Ritz-Carlton, Portland. These hotels offer great views of the city, mountains, and river. They are perfect for exploring Portland’s lively summer travel destinations and outdoor adventures in July.
“The Waterfront Blues Festival is a must-see event for anyone visiting Portland in the summer. The energy, music, and stunning setting make it a truly unforgettable experience.”
Columbia, Missouri: Art, Music, and Outdoor Adventure
Midway between St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia, Missouri is a lively city. It’s full of art, music, and outdoor fun. Being home to the University of Missouri, it offers a mix of culture and adventure perfect for summer travel destinations.
The city’s art scene is vibrant. The Museum of Art and Archaeology on campus showcases local and regional art. From June 24 to July 15, the MOSY Firefly Music Festival brings together top conductors for amazing music.
For those who love the outdoors, Columbia has plenty to offer. The Katy Trail is great for biking and hiking. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park has trails and caves to explore. You can also enjoy Stephens Lake Park or try local foods at Shakespeare’s Pizza and Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream.
| Top Attractions in Columbia, Missouri | Accolades and Awards |
|---|---|
| University of Missouri | Oldest public university west of the Mississippi River (established in 1839) |
| Museum of Art and Archaeology | Showcases the creativity of local and regional artists |
| MOSY Firefly Music Festival | Annual event featuring top symphony conductors from across the U.S. |
| Katy Trail | Offers scenic biking and hiking routes |
| Rock Bridge Memorial State Park | Over 25 miles of trails and the captivating Connor’s Cave |
| Stephens Lake Park | Serene lakefront setting for outdoor recreation |
| Shakespeare’s Pizza | Named one of the top 10 college town pizzerias in America by TripAdvisor |
| Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream | Locally renowned for its delicious ice cream |
Looking for family-friendly summer trips, outdoor adventures in July, or a city break with art, music, and food? Columbia, Missouri is perfect for your July holidays.
The Outer Banks, North Carolina: Beaches, Lighthouses, and Kite Festivals
The Outer Banks, or “OBX” for short, are a series of barrier islands in North Carolina. They are perfect for a summer beach vacation. The area is famous for its beautiful beaches, historic lighthouses, and fun kite festivals. It’s a top spot for family-friendly summer trips and outdoor adventures in July.
Every year, the Outer Banks welcome between four and five million visitors. This number has almost doubled in 15 years. It shows how popular the area is for warm weather getaways and summer travel destinations. Corolla has upscale rentals and wild mustangs, while Duck offers cozy beach vacations.
History lovers will enjoy the Outer Banks’ link to the Wright Brothers’ flights. Places like Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head are full of july holidays and attractions. Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands, on the other hand, are peaceful spots for a relaxed summer getaway.
If you want to fly kites, see lighthouses, or just enjoy the sun, the Outer Banks are great. This coastal area has natural beauty, history, and fun activities for all ages. It’s an excellent choice for your summer travel.
New Hampshire's Lakes, Mountains, and Charming Towns
New Hampshire is a perfect summer getaway. It has beautiful lakes, mountains, and quaint towns. You can find everything from lakeside cabins to cozy mountain lodges and charming villages.
The Lakes Region is a top spot, with over 270 lakes, including Lake Winnipesaukee. You can cruise, swim, and enjoy the views. The White Mountains are nearby, with lakes, rivers, and Franconia Notch State Park. For a wilderness adventure, try Umbagog Lake State Park in the Great North Woods.
In southwestern New Hampshire, Fitzwilliam is a must-see. It has historic homes, country roads, and fresh blueberries. You’ll also see the largest rhododendron grove in northern New England.
Where to Stay
New Hampshire has many places to stay. You can choose the historic Chase House Inn, the charming Inn at East Hill Farm, or the elegant Omni Bretton Arms Inn. Wherever you stay, you’ll enjoy the natural beauty and small-town charm.
Aspen and Snowmass, Colorado: Summer Adventure in the Mountains
When the snow melts, Aspen and Snowmass become a top spot for summer travel destinations. The mid-70s temperatures make it perfect for exploring. You can enjoy stunning views from the Silver Queen Gondola on Aspen Mountain or the Elk Camp Gondola at Snowmass. These places offer a wealth of outdoor adventures in july and scenic summer escapes.
Food lovers will enjoy the Aspen Saturday Market. It’s filled with local produce. The The Little Nell Culinary Fest (July 7-10) is a must-see for foodies. It features top chefs from Relais & Châteaux.
In Snowmass, the Snowmass Rodeo celebrates its 50th year. It has a new arena and events from June 19 to Aug. 23. It’s a great way to experience Western july holidays and warm weather getaways.
Staying in Aspen and Snowmass is a treat. You can choose from The Little Nell, a Relais & Châteaux hotel, to the historic Hotel Jerome. There’s also the new Mollie Aspen and the Viceroy Snowmass with suites and a penthouse.
Where to Stay
Aspen and Snowmass are perfect for a summer travel destinations or a scenic summer escape. They offer endless outdoor fun and top-notch dining and culture. It’s a unique mountain adventure in Colorado.
Newport, Rhode Island: Gilded Age Mansions and Waterfront Charm
Newport is a beautiful summer spot along Rhode Island’s coast. It’s famous for its grand mansions and scenic waterfront. The town also has a lively culture that draws visitors in the summer.
Visiting Newport means seeing its stunning Gilded Age mansions. Around 9 grand estates line Bellevue Avenue. These mansions show the lavish lives of America’s rich families from the late 19th century.
Newport is more than mansions. It offers outdoor fun and cultural events perfect for summer. You can walk the Cliff Walk, bike Ocean Drive, or enjoy the beaches. Sports fans can watch tennis or polo matches.
Newport has many places to stay, from luxury resorts to cozy hotels. The Vanderbilt and Gardiner House are just a few options. Newport’s mix of history, outdoor fun, and culture makes it a top summer spot.
| Key Facts About Newport, Rhode Island | Details |
|---|---|
| Colonial Buildings | Newport has among the highest number of surviving colonial buildings of any city in the United States. |
| Mansion Tour Costs | The trolley day-pass for mansion tours costs $6 at the Gateway Visitor Center, and individual mansion tours range from 35 minutes to an hour each. |
| Mansion Tour Packages | A two-house ticket or a five-pass ticket is more economical than buying individual tickets for mansion tours. |
| Outdoor Activities | Newport’s beaches include Easton Beach and the Atlantic Beach Club, and Sightsailing offers two-hour sailing tours in the harbor. |
| Unique Accommodations | Clingstone, a 23-room iconic shingle house in Newport, is available for rental, and Mansion Rentals offer alternative transportation like scooter coupes. |
“Newport, Rhode Island, boasts approximately 9 grand mansions located along Bellevue Avenue, with one additional mansion situated on Ochre Point.”
Conclusion: Best Vacation Spots in July for Summer Getaways
This article has shown the top 10 vacation spots in July for amazing summer trips. You can find everything from outdoor fun to cultural events and delicious food. These places are perfect for anyone looking for a great vacation.
In the United States, spots like Orlando, Florida, and Anaheim, California, are great for families. Places like Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, offer stunning natural views. These spots are perfect for those who love nature.
When planning your July vacation, think about the many options in this guide. Portland, Oregon, and Newport, Rhode Island, are just a few places with unique experiences. July is the best time to enjoy the weather, outdoor fun, and memorable moments on your trip.
FAQ
What are the top 10 best vacation spots in the United States and around the world for July?
The top spots in July include Homer, Alaska; Portland, Oregon; and Columbia, Missouri. The Outer Banks in North Carolina, New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, and White Mountains are also great. Aspen and Snowmass in Colorado, and Newport, Rhode Island, round out the list.
What is unique about visiting Homer, Alaska in July?
Homer is known as the “City of Peonies” in July. It celebrates peonies from July 1-30. Visitors can also whale watch in Kachemak Bay and explore the fishing community.
What are some of the top attractions and events in Portland, Oregon during the summer?
Portland has sunny weather in the high 70s. It’s perfect for walking downtown, shopping, and trying food carts. The Waterfront Blues Festival in July features over 100 performances along the Willamette River.
What is there to do in Columbia, Missouri in the summer?
Columbia has a beautiful University of Missouri campus and the Mizzou Botanic Garden. It’s known for its art and music scene, including the MOSY Firefly Music Festival. There’s also biking, hiking, and relaxing by the Missouri River.
What are some of the top activities and attractions in the Outer Banks of North Carolina during the summer?
The Outer Banks offer beaches, state parks, and lighthouses. There’s also fishing, kitesurfing, diving, boating, and hiking. The 46th Annual Wright Kite Festival happens July 19-20, and there’s great seafood and barbecue.
What types of summer experiences can travelers find in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has summer experiences like cabins by lakes and mountain lodges. Visitors can cruise Lake Winnipesaukee, hike in Franconia Notch State Park, and explore quaint towns like Fitzwilliam. There’s also blueberry picking.
What are the top summer activities and events in Aspen and Snowmass, Colorado?
Aspen and Snowmass offer mountain views, the Aspen Saturday market, and dining at The Little Nell Culinary Fest. The Snowmass Rodeo celebrates its 50th anniversary with events every Wednesday from June 19 to August 23.
What makes Newport, Rhode Island a desirable summer destination?
Newport has Gilded Age mansions, beautiful beaches, and the scenic Cliff Walk. It also hosts polo matches and tennis tournaments. The Newport Classical Music Festival runs from July 4-21.
