Places to Visit in July

I love how July getaways offer the best mix of outdoor adventures, coastal escapes, and vibrant festivals. Even though it’s a popular travel month, there are so many underrated places where you can still find peace, charm, and unforgettable experiences. These are my off the beaten path favorites that I think you will enjoy as well.

1. Bemidji, Minnesota

I loved visiting this welcoming lakefront town during the heart of summer, as it turned out to be one of the sunniest stretches of the year – the weather was warm, perfect for being out on the water and exploring the outdoors, with just a few cool breezes off the lake to keep things refreshing. It also happened to coincide with peak lake-life season, when boating, fishing, and paddling are at their best!

It was wonderful to see Bemidji come alive with fun summer happenings too – there was the colorful Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival on Lake Bemidji, the lively Art in the Park fair featuring regional artists and crafters, and free Concerts in the Park at the waterfront amphitheater, which I couldn’t get enough of.

I drove four hours north from Minneapolis and stayed for three charming days during my summer break. We were based in SouthShore Hotel on Lake Bemidji. It was a gorgeous week filled with sunrise walks along Lake Bemidji State Park’s sandy shoreline, biking the scenic Paul Bunyan State Trail, kayaking across the calm waters of Lake Irving, and enjoying al-fresco dining at cozy local cafés with views of the waterfront and the famous Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues.

Breakfast was at Raphael’s Bakery Café. I had a wild rice quiche, flaky and rich, with a side of fruit that actually tasted like summer. The crust was buttery, the filling warm and earthy, and I ate it slowly while watching college kids on bikes glide by outside. It felt like a town that knew how to keep its pace.

2. Eden, Utah

I loved visiting this beautiful mountain valley town in the height of summer, when the days were warm and sunny but evenings brought refreshing cool breezes down from the Wasatch Range. It was the perfect season for outdoor adventures – from lake escapes to mountain hikes – and the town was buzzing with festivals and local events.

It was great to see Eden really come alive with its summertime charm too – there was the lively Ogden Valley Balloon & Artist Festival, where the skies lit up with colorful hot-air balloons, the family-friendly Music on the Patio concert series at local spots, and community farmers’ markets showcasing fresh Utah produce and artisanal crafts.

I drove an easy one hour north from Salt Lake City and stayed for three relaxing days at Compass Rose Lodge. It was a gorgeous week filled with hiking alpine trails in Powder Mountain, paddleboarding on Pineview Reservoir, mountain biking through wildflower meadows, and enjoying rustic al-fresco dining with panoramic views of the valley and peaks.

Breakfast was at Powder Keg near the base of Powder Mountain: sourdough toast stacked with avocado, eggs, and roasted tomato. The eggs were soft and rich, the tomatoes sweet and smoky, and the whole plate felt like it had been built for someone who just came in from a hike. I ate it on the patio, boots still dusty, sun on my face, and nowhere else to be.

3. Skagway

I stopped at this small Alaskan coastal town gem in July during a scenic Inside Passage road trip, and it was absolutely worth it! I loved that the weather was mild, the days were incredibly long (with nearly 19 hours of daylight), and July is one of the driest months of the year – perfect for exploring the dramatic coastal fjords, hiking lush mountain trails, riding the legendary White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, and dining in rustic saloons and cozy seafood spots, all without the heavy cruise-season crowds found in bigger ports!

I also loved seeing the bright bursts of wildflowers and joining in the lively community events – the 4th of July Parade and fireworks show over the Skagway Harbor were fantastic, and the summer Skagway Street Market featured fresh produce, Alaskan art, and handmade crafts.

I drove up from Whitehorse (just under 2.5 hours through stunning mountain passes) and stayed here for four idyllic days! That was just enough to wander the historic wooden boardwalks of downtown, take the breathtaking train ride up the White Pass, hike the Dewey Lake Trail system, explore the Gold Rush-era history in Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and admire sweeping views over Lynn Canal from Yakutania Point.

I also enjoyed lingering at friendly pubs and oceanfront cafes, chatting with local shopkeepers who were eager to share details about all the community traditions – from summer music festivals to quirky local races and weekly markets.

My favorite lunch was at Glacial Coffeehouse. I had a smoked salmon bagel with dill cream cheese and thin-sliced cucumber. The salmon was rich and cold, the bagel warm and soft, and the contrast made each bite hit just right. I ate it on a bench overlooking the harbor, watching seaplanes lift into the sky like they had stories to tell.

4. Brookings, OR

I stopped at this small southern Oregon coastal gem in July during a coastal road trip, and it was such a great choice! I loved that the weather was pleasantly mild (often sunnier and warmer than farther north thanks to the “banana belt” climate), the days were long, and July is the driest month of the year – perfect for exploring dramatic sea stacks, hiking coastal bluffs, wandering through botanical gardens, and enjoying oceanfront dining without the heavy crowds you find in larger coastal towns during peak summer.

I also loved the colorful bursts of wildflowers and the lively summer calendar – the annual 4th of July fireworks show over the Chetco River was spectacular, and the Brookings-Harbor Farmers Market had a wonderful mix of fresh local produce, artisan baked goods, and handmade crafts.

We drove down from Portland (about 6 hours south) and stayed for four relaxing days at Beachfront Inn! That was just enough time to wander the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor with its iconic viewpoints and hidden coves, hike the trails at Harris Beach State Park, explore tide pools teeming with sea stars and anemones, and take in the lush greenery at the renowned Azalea Park, which was bursting with color.

My best lunch was a bowl of clam chowder at Black Trumpet Bistro. It was thick, creamy, and peppered with herbs, served with sourdough still warm from the oven. The chowder had that briny depth you only get near the source, and the bread soaked it up like it knew what to do. I ate by the window, watching the fog roll back just enough to reveal a sliver of sunlit tidepool.

5. Big Bear Lake

I stopped at this Southern California mountain-lake gem in July during a summer road trip through the San Bernardino Mountains, and it was the perfect retreat! I loved that the weather was warm but not sweltering (with cool evenings), the days were long, and July is prime season for enjoying the lake and surrounding trails – ideal for hiking, kayaking, swimming, and dining on lakeside patios without the overwhelming heat found in lower-altitude destinations this time of year.

I also loved seeing the meadows dotted with wildflowers and the vibrant community vibe – the town’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular over Big Bear Lake was dazzling, and the weekly Big Bear Farmers Market offered fresh mountain produce, baked treats, and locally made crafts.

I drove up just over 2 hours from Los Angeles and spent four refreshing days here! That was just enough time to hike the Castle Rock Trail for panoramic lake views, paddleboard across Big Bear Lake, take the scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit for summer hiking and mountain biking, and stroll through The Village with its cozy shops, galleries, and cafés.

My highlights? Brunch at Grizzly Manor Café. I ordered fluffy pancakes the size of plates, thick-cut bacon, and eggs that arrived still steaming. The pancakes smelled like vanilla and browned butter, and the whole place felt like summer camp for grown-ups. I ate outside, napkin tucked into my lap, the scent of pine mixing with breakfast in the best way.

6. Copenhagen

I stopped at this stylish Scandinavian capital in July during a European summer trip, and it was a fantastic choice! I loved that the weather was mild and sunny, the days were wonderfully long (with up to 17 hours of daylight), and July is the warmest month of the year – perfect for cycling along the waterfront, exploring vibrant neighborhoods, and dining al fresco at canalside cafés without the chilly winds or darker days you’d find in other seasons.

I also loved the colorful blooms in the city’s parks and gardens, plus the lively events calendar – Tivoli Gardens hosts its famous summer concerts and fireworks, and the Copenhagen Jazz Festival brings music to streets, squares, and cozy venues all across the city.

I flew in from London (just under 2 hours) and stayed for four amazing days! That was just enough time to cycle around Nyhavn with its iconic, brightly painted townhouses, wander the cobblestoned streets of Christianshavn, enjoy a picnic in the King’s Garden by Rosenborg Castle, explore the cutting-edge design and food scene in Vesterbro and Nørrebro, and take a boat tour along Copenhagen’s historic canals.

My highlights? Lunch at BRUS. I had a crispy chicken sandwich with fermented chili mayo and pickled vegetables, stacked high on toasted sourdough. It came hot and crackling, rich and tangy, with a side of fries still sizzling from the kitchen. I sat in a corner booth by the window, soda in hand, watching the soft bustle of locals on their lunch break, and felt completely unhurried. Like I belonged there, at least for a while.

7. Ridgway CO

I stopped at this small mountain-town gem in July during a road trip through southwest Colorado, and it was the perfect choice! I loved that the weather was warm but comfortable, the skies were clear, and July is peak season for wildflower blooms and long golden evenings – ideal for hiking alpine trails, soaking in hot springs, kayaking the reservoir, and dining outdoors with jaw-dropping San Juan Mountain views, all without the overwhelming bustle of larger resort towns.

I also loved seeing the colorful fields of columbine and lupine, and the town’s lively community spirit – the Ridgway RiverFest along the Uncompahgre River was full of music, local food, and paddle races, and the Ridgway Farmers Market brimmed with fresh produce, mountain honey, and handmade artisan goods.

I drove just under an hour from Telluride and stayed for four rejuvenating days! That was just enough to wander the historic downtown (with its Western movie heritage), hike the scenic Ridgway Area Trails system, paddleboard at Ridgway State Park, and take a scenic drive along the San Juan Skyway to marvel at panoramic viewpoints and historic mining towns.

My highlights? Lunch at Taco del Gnar. I had street tacos piled with crispy Brussels sprouts, chipotle aioli, and lime crema. The flavors were big, bright, and unexpected in the best way. I ate at a picnic table with a mountain view, a paper napkin in my lap and sauce on my fingers, fully content to let the rest of the day take its time.

8. Auburn, Washington

I stopped at this friendly Puget Sound valley gem in July during a Pacific Northwest road trip, and it turned out to be such a fun stop! I loved that the weather was sunny and mild, the days were long (over 15 hours of daylight), and July is one of the driest months of the year – perfect for hiking along river trails, exploring regional parks, enjoying the local food scene, and soaking up the lively small-city vibe, all while avoiding the bigger Seattle crowds just up the road.

I also loved the bursts of color from summer flowers across town and the busy summer calendar – Auburn’s 4th of July Festival with fireworks over Les Gove Park was a highlight, and the Auburn International Farmers Market brimmed with farm-fresh produce, craft foods, and handmade artisan items.

I drove less than 40 minutes south from Seattle and stayed for three easygoing days! That was just enough to bike along the Interurban Trail, picnic at Flaming Geyser State Park, wander the White River Valley Museum to learn about Auburn’s railroad and agricultural history, and catch panoramic views of Mount Rainier from Game Farm Park.

I also enjoyed grabbing a bite at laid-back local cafés and breweries, and chatting with welcoming locals who shared details about Auburn’s proud traditions – from outdoor summer concerts in the park to cultural festivals celebrating the city’s diverse community.

My highlights? A stop at Sun Break Café for their famous French toast. I enjoyed thick slices with crisped edges, powdered sugar on top, and warm syrup that smelled like vanilla and spice. The toast had just enough crunch before giving way to soft, custardy middle, and I ate it slowly, watching the morning light shift across the wet sidewalk outside.

9. Longmont

I stopped at this charming Front Range gem in July during a Colorado road trip, and it was such a great decision! I loved that the weather was warm and sunny with cool evenings, the days were long (nearly 15 hours of daylight), and July is prime time for outdoor festivals, craft beer patios, and mountain adventures – perfect for exploring trails, enjoying farm-to-table dining, and experiencing a vibrant community atmosphere, all without the overwhelming bustle of nearby Boulder or Denver.

I also loved the colorful bursts of summer wildflowers and the packed calendar of events – the Rhythm on the River Festival in Thompson Park was a highlight with live music, art, and local food vendors, and the Longmont Farmers Market was brimming with farm-fresh produce, baked treats, and Colorado-made crafts.

I drove just under an hour from Denver and stayed for four delightful days! That was just enough to stroll historic downtown with its indie shops and cafés, paddleboard at Union Reservoir, bike along the St. Vrain Greenway, sip local brews on patios with mountain views, and take a short drive up to Rocky Mountain National Park for a day hike among alpine meadows.

My highlights? An early dinner and cold escape at Libby Brewing Co.. I had a basket of tacos from a food truck parked just outside. I ordered crispy pork, pineapple salsa, corn tortillas still warm. Inside, I sipped a citrusy wheat ale that smelled like orange peel and grass. The taproom was cool and welcoming, with windows open to the breeze and a few locals chatting like old friends.

10. Hudson, Wisconsin

I stopped at this charming St. Croix River town in July during a Midwest road trip, and it was such a rewarding choice! I loved that the weather was warm and sunny, the days were long (with nearly 16 hours of daylight), and July is perfect for riverside strolls, boating, hiking in nearby state parks, and dining on outdoor patios overlooking the water – all with a friendly small-town vibe that feels worlds away from the bigger Twin Cities crowds just across the river.

I also loved the vibrant summer spirit – Hudson’s Booster Days Festival over the 4th of July was full of parades, live music, and fireworks over the St. Croix River, and the weekly Hudson Farmers Market offered fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts.

I drove just under 40 minutes from Minneapolis and stayed for three easygoing days! That was just enough to wander the historic downtown with its brick storefronts and boutique shops, picnic at Lakefront Park along the river, hike through the wooded bluffs of Willow River State Park to its dramatic waterfall, and enjoy a leisurely boat tour on the scenic St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.

My highlights? I had lunch at San Pedro Café, just a short walk from the waterfront. I ordered the jerk chicken sandwich. It was sweet, smoky, and a little spicy, served with fried plantains. The aroma was warm and tropical, the chicken grilled perfectly. I sat near the window, palm leaves brushing the glass from the inside, and felt completely unhurried. Afterward, I wandered back to the park, where children played near the bandstand and the river kept moving, slow and sure.

11. Crieff

If you are looking for something international, I can't recommend Scotland enough! The people there are kind and July is the sweet spot for visiting. I stopped at this charming Highland gateway town in July during a Scottish road trip, and it was the perfect choice! I loved that the weather was pleasantly mild (with long summer days stretching nearly 17 hours), and July is one of the best months for exploring rolling hills, lush glens, and historic sites – ideal for hiking, whisky tasting, and strolling quaint town streets, all without the heavier tourist crowds of Edinburgh or the Isle of Skye.

I also loved seeing the countryside awash with blooming heather and wildflowers, plus the lively community events – the Crieff Highland Games preparations were buzzing with excitement, and local summer markets brimmed with farm produce, Scottish cheeses, and handmade crafts.

I drove just over an hour from Edinburgh and stayed for three relaxing days! That was just enough time to hike Lady Mary’s Walk along the River Earn, explore Drummond Castle Gardens with its spectacular formal parterre, wander through the town’s independent shops and tearooms, and take a distillery tour at Glenturret, Scotland’s oldest working whisky distillery.

My highlights? A meal at Yann’s, where we shared hearty plates. I had beef bourguignon rich with red wine and herbs, and a children’s menu that felt thoughtful instead of an afterthought. The smell of slow cooking filled the room, and dessert was sticky toffee pudding that we all dipped into, warm and sweet with just enough spice. Earlier in the day, we toured the Famous Grouse Experience at Glenturret Distillery but for the history and scenery. The smell of oak casks and malt filled the air, even outside.

A downside? Summer crowds meant some attractions booked up quickly, and we had to plan meals in advance to avoid long waits. Spontaneous stops were harder than I’d hoped.

12. New York City on the Fourth of July

I stopped at this world-famous city in July during an East Coast summer trip, and it was a thrilling choice! I loved that the weather was hot and lively, the days were long (with nearly 15 hours of daylight), and July is buzzing with outdoor energy – perfect for rooftop dining, evening walks along the waterfront, free concerts in the parks, and exploring the city’s endless neighborhoods, even if it meant embracing the city’s famous summer heat.

I also loved the celebratory atmosphere – the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks were dazzling over the East River, and the SummerStage concerts in Central Park brought free music and dance performances under the stars. Food festivals and open-air markets popped up everywhere, from Smorgasburg in Brooklyn to pop-up art fairs in Manhattan.

I flew in from Chicago and spent five unforgettable days here! That was just enough to stroll Central Park’s leafy paths, marvel at the skyline from the Top of the Rock, explore the museums along Fifth Avenue, catch a Broadway show, and wander the unique character of each neighborhood – from the trendy boutiques of SoHo to the vibrant street art of Bushwick and the historic charm of Greenwich Village.

13. Bohinj, Slovenia

I stopped at this serene Alpine lake retreat in July during a Slovenian summer trip, and it was absolutely magical! I loved that the weather was pleasantly warm in the day but fresh in the evenings, the days were long (over 15 hours of daylight), and July is the perfect month to enjoy swimming, kayaking, and hiking – all surrounded by the emerald forests and towering peaks of Triglav National Park, without the heavier tourist crowds of nearby Lake Bled.

I also loved seeing the meadows filled with wildflowers and the relaxed community vibe – the Bohinj Summer Music Festival filled evenings with classical concerts in historic churches, and local farmers’ markets offered mountain cheeses, honey, and fresh berries.

I drove just under 1.5 hours from Ljubljana and stayed for four peaceful days! That was just enough to hike the Mostnica Gorge with its turquoise pools, take the cable car up to Vogel for panoramic views of Lake Bohinj and the Julian Alps, swim in the glassy waters of the lake, and visit the picturesque Church of St. John the Baptist at the lake’s edge.

Conclusion

Whether it’s a cozy coastal town, a mountain retreat, or a lively city, July always feels like the perfect month to travel. The days are long, the weather is at its best, and everywhere seems to be alive with festivals, farmers markets, and outdoor celebrations. I love how July blends adventure and relaxation. One moment you’re hiking trails or exploring historic streets, and the next you’re lingering over a meal on a sunlit patio or watching fireworks sparkle over water.

No matter where I go in July, there’s a special energy in the air (a mix of summer ease and community spirit) that makes each destination feel both vibrant and welcoming. It’s the ideal time to slow down, soak it all in, and create the kinds of travel memories that linger long after summer fades.

Hi, I'm Ema. Ready to plan your next weekend getaway? Let me help. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on abc6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, USAToday, and many other outlets. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX with my husband and son. Click for more.

 

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