25 Best Summer Vacation Spots to Visit in July
Planning a summer vacation can feel exciting and stressful at the same time.
July is one of the most popular months to travel, especially for families with kids on school break. The good news is that there are plenty of amazing places to visit, no matter what kind of trip you want.
In this guide, you’ll find the best summer vacation spots and the best places to visit in July. These ideas work well for families, couples, and group trips.
How to Pick the Best July Destination
Choosing the right place to travel in July can make your trip feel easy and fun instead of rushed and stressful.
- Weather and comfort: July can be very hot in some places. If your family doesn’t enjoy strong heat, look for coastal areas, higher elevations, or northern destinations where the weather feels cooler and more comfortable.
- Who you’re traveling with: Think about the ages in your group. Younger kids do better with shorter travel days and simple activities. Teens may want adventure, beaches, or cities with fun attractions. Choose a place that works for everyone.
- Crowds and travel pace: July is the peak travel season. Popular spots fill up fast and feel busy. Pick places with plenty of space, plan early mornings, or choose less crowded towns near big attractions.
Taking a few minutes to match the destination to your travel style will help you enjoy July without feeling overwhelmed or tired.
Best Summer Vacation Spots You Should Visit
Summer is a great time to travel, relax, and visit new places. These destinations are popular in July and offer a good mix of weather, activities, and family-friendly experiences.
1. Maui, Hawaii
Maui is a perfect summer destination if you love beaches and slow-paced travel. July brings warm days and calm ocean waters, which are great for swimming and snorkeling.
The island is easy to explore and works well for families who don’t want a rushed trip. You can enjoy nature, food, and beach time all in one place. It’s relaxing but never boring.
- Budget: $220–$350 per day
- Best for: Beach lovers
- Things to do: Kaanapali Beach, Road to Hana, Molokini snorkeling, Haleakalā National Park, sunset luaus
2. San Diego, California
San Diego offers great weather in July without extreme heat. It’s a mix of beaches, parks, and family attractions. The city is easy to get around in and perfect for travelers with kids.
You can balance outdoor fun with indoor breaks. It’s one of the easiest summer trips to plan.
- Budget: $180–$300 per day
- Best for: Beach and city trips
- Things to do: San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, La Jolla Cove, Coronado Beach, Old Town San Diego
3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone is an exciting summer destination filled with natural wonders. July is one of the best months to visit because roads and trails are open.
Kids enjoy seeing geysers and animals in the wild. The park is large, so planning short daily routes works best. Staying nearby helps reduce driving stress.
- Budget: $150–$250 per day
- Best for: Nature lovers, adventurous families
- Things to do: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, wildlife spotting, Yellowstone Lake, scenic drives
4. Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks are great for a relaxed beach vacation in July. The beaches are wide and less crowded than major beach cities.
It’s a good spot for families who want simple fun. Rental homes make it easy to stay together. Days here feel calm and easy.
- Budget: $140–$220 per day
- Best for: Quiet beach trips
- Things to do: Beach time, lighthouse visits, wild horse tours, fishing, sunset boat rides
5. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is lively and fun in the summer. July brings festivals, lakefront activities, and warm weather. Families enjoy the mix of museums and outdoor spaces.
The city is walkable in many areas and easy to cover over a few days. It’s a great summer city break.
- Budget: $170–$280 per day
- Best for: City lovers, older kids
- Things to do: Millennium Park, Navy Pier, Lake Michigan beaches, Field Museum, architecture boat tour
6. Alaska (Anchorage and Nearby Areas)
Alaska is perfect if you want cooler weather in July. Days are long, and nature is at its best. Families love seeing glaciers and wildlife without extreme cold.
Tours make it easy to roam around without hiking too much. It feels adventurous but still comfortable.
- Budget: $200–$320 per day
- Best for: Nature and wildlife lovers
- Things to do: Glacier cruises, wildlife tours, scenic train rides, hiking trails, coastal views
7. Orlando, Florida
Orlando is a top summer vacation spot for families with kids. July is hot, but theme parks are fully open and lively. Many hotels offer pools and kid-friendly perks.
Planning early mornings and rest breaks helps a lot. It’s a fun and energetic trip.
- Budget: $160–$260 per day
- Best for: Families with kids
- Things to do: Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, water parks, character dining, resort pool days
8. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia offers cooler weather and beautiful coastal views in July. It’s great for families who enjoy light outdoor activities.
Trails are short and manageable, and the town nearby is charming. You can mix hiking with rest easily. It’s calm and refreshing.
- Budget: $150–$240 per day
- Best for: Outdoor lovers
- Things to do: Park Loop Road, Cadillac Mountain, coastal hikes, biking trails, scenic viewpoints
9. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is ideal for a summer trip with both water and mountain views. July weather is warm during the day and cooler at night.
Families enjoy beach areas, short hikes, and lake activities. It’s a good balance of adventure and rest.
- Budget: $180–$300 per day
- Best for: Outdoor fun
- Things to do: Lake beaches, kayaking, scenic gondola rides, hiking trails, boat cruises
10. Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is a great July trip for learning and sightseeing. Many museums are free and kid-friendly.
You can mix indoor visits with evening walks. Planning around the heat is important. It’s educational and budget-friendly.
- Budget: $140–$230 per day
- Best for: Educational trips
- Things to do: Smithsonian museums, National Mall, monuments at night, zoo visits, river walks
11. Banff, Alberta, Canada
Banff is a dream summer destination with cool weather and stunning mountain views. July is perfect for sightseeing because roads and trails are fully open.
Families love the clear lakes and easy nature walks. The town is small, clean, and easy to travel in. It feels peaceful but still has plenty to do.
- Budget: $200–$320 per day
- Best for: Nature lovers
- Things to do: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Banff Avenue, scenic drives, gondola rides
12. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod is a classic summer getaway with beaches and small-town charm. July brings warm days and a lively feel without being too busy.
Families enjoy bike paths, seafood stops, and calm beaches. It’s easy to slow down and enjoy simple days here. Great for a relaxed summer break.
- Budget: $170–$260 per day
- Best for: Beach and small-town trips
- Things to do: Beach hopping, biking trails, whale watching, seafood shacks, lighthouse visits
13. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the summer. July offers clear roads and bright views. Families enjoy scenic drives and short hikes.
Wildlife sightings are common, which makes the trip exciting. Planning ahead is important, but it’s worth it.
- Budget: $150–$250 per day
- Best for: Outdoor lovers, adventurous families
- Things to do: Going-to-the-Sun Road, lake walks, wildlife spotting, short hikes, scenic overlooks
14. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is lively and fun during July, especially for families who enjoy culture and food. You can mix sightseeing with beach time.
Evening activities work well to avoid daytime heat. It’s energetic and colorful.
- Budget: $180–$300 per day
- Best for: Culture and food lovers
- Things to do: Sagrada Família, city beaches, Gothic Quarter walks, local markets, food tours
15. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a great summer city with mild weather and long daylight hours. July is perfect for walking, biking, and canal views.
Families enjoy museums, parks, and boat rides. The city feels calm and organized. It’s easy to plan without rushing.
- Budget: $190–$310 per day
- Best for: Easy city travel
- Things to do: Canal cruises, bike rides, parks, museums, and local cafés
16. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a fun summer destination near the Great Smoky Mountains. July brings warm days and green views.
Families enjoy outdoor activities and small-town attractions. You can balance nature time with fun stops. It’s affordable and easy to plan.
- Budget: $130–$210 per day
- Best for: Budget-friendly trips
- Things to do: Smoky Mountain trails, scenic drives, chairlift rides, local attractions, river walks
17. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is popular in July for its long beaches and family-friendly feel. There are plenty of hotels, dining spots, and activities.
Kids enjoy the boardwalk and water parks. It’s lively but easy to manage with planning.
- Budget: $140–$230 per day
- Best for: Beach fun
- Things to do: Beach time, boardwalk walks, mini golf, water parks, sunset views
18. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is a beautiful summer destination with history and ocean views. July is warm, but the sea breeze helps.
Families enjoy walking the old city and swimming nearby. Early mornings and evenings are best for sightseeing. It’s scenic and memorable.
- Budget: $170–$280 per day
- Best for: History and coastal trips
- Things to do: Old Town walks, city walls, beach swims, boat tours, coastal views
19. Lake George, New York
Lake George is great for a summer lake vacation. July weather is warm and comfortable. Families enjoy swimming, boat rides, and relaxed days by the water.
It’s quieter than big cities and easy to enjoy. Perfect for slowing down.
- Budget: $140–$220 per day
- Best for: Lake vacations
- Things to do: Lake swimming, boat cruises, hiking trails, town walks, picnic spots
20. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is one of the best summer cities to visit in July. The weather is pleasant, and nature is close by.
Families love the parks, waterfront, and easy day trips. A great mix of city and nature.
- Budget: $180–$290 per day
- Best for: City and nature mix
- Things to do: Stanley Park, waterfront walks, beaches, nearby hikes, food markets
21. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is a beautiful summer destination known for its views and relaxed pace. July is warm, but coastal breezes help keep things comfortable.
Families enjoy short walks, boat rides, and beach time. Evenings are calm and scenic, making it easy to unwind. It’s a great mix of beauty and simplicity.
- Budget: $190–$300 per day
- Best for: Scenic and relaxed trips
- Things to do: Sunset views, island boat tours, beach visits, village walks, local dining
22. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is perfect for a summer escape surrounded by nature. July weather is mild, and outdoor activities are easy to enjoy.
Families love the wide-open spaces and wildlife views. The town itself is small and friendly. It’s a great base for nearby national parks.
- Budget: $170–$280 per day
- Best for: Outdoor and nature lovers
- Things to do: Scenic drives, wildlife spotting, short hikes, town square visits, river floats
23. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a warm and welcoming city in July with lots of charm. Families enjoy the mix of history, food, and nearby beaches.
The city is lively but still manageable. Trams and walking routes make travelling fun. It’s a good pick for culture without stress.
- Budget: $150–$260 per day
- Best for: Culture and food trips
- Things to do: Tram rides, historic neighborhoods, riverfront walks, local markets, nearby beaches
24. Swiss Alps (Lucerne Area)
The Swiss Alps are stunning in July with green landscapes and cool air. Lucerne makes a great base for easy mountain trips.
Families enjoy cable cars and lake views without long hikes. Everything feels organized and calm. It’s peaceful and refreshing.
- Budget: $220–$350 per day
- Best for: Cool-weather escapes
- Things to do: Lake cruises, cable car rides, mountain views, town walks, scenic trains
25. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a great summer destination with warm weather and a relaxed vibe. July is one of the best months to visit. Families enjoy beaches, nature, and cultural experiences.
Resorts make travel easy and comfortable. It’s a balanced mix of fun and rest.
- Budget: $130–$220 per day
- Best for: Relaxed tropical trips
- Things to do: Beach time, temple visits, rice terraces, local markets, resort activities
Best Lodging Types for Family Travel
Choosing the right place to stay can make your family trip much easier and more comfortable. The best lodging gives you space to rest, easy meals, and fewer daily hassles.
| Lodging Type | Why It Works for Families | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Vacation Rentals | More space, kitchen access, and separate bedrooms | Large families, longer stays |
| Family Hotels | On-site dining, pools, and kid-friendly services | Short trips, easy planning |
| All-Inclusive Resorts | Meals and activities included in one price | Stress-free vacations |
| Extended-Stay Hotels | Kitchenettes and laundry access | Families with young kids |
| Cabins or Cottages | Quiet setting and outdoor space | Nature trips and road trips |
Travel Tips for Families:
- Book your stay early for summer trips to get better prices and more choices
- Look for free breakfast and parking to save money each day
- Choose places close to your main activities to reduce travel time
- Check room layouts to make sure everyone has enough space
- Read recent reviews to spot noise, cleanliness, or comfort issues
Picking the right lodging and planning ahead can reduce stress and help your family enjoy the trip more.
Conclusion
Planning a summer vacation in July doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
With so many great places to choose from, the key is picking a destination that fits your travel style, budget, and who you’re traveling with.
A little planning goes a long way, especially during the busy summer season. Book early, keep your plans flexible, and focus on making the trip enjoyable for everyone.
If you’re still unsure where to go, save this guide for later or share it with your travel group. It can help you decide faster and plan a summer trip you’ll actually enjoy.
