Best Places to Visit in July
Searching for the best places to travel in July? Well, you are in the right place! I've love how July and early August 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, off the beaten path adventure, and unforgettable experiences. These are my favorites that I collected while road tripping through the USA and Europe that I think you will enjoy as well.
1. Bemidji, Minnesota
This was one of my favorite Midwest stops on my road last summer. With average temperatures around 58°F – 79°F (14°C – 26°C), the weather perfect for being out on the water and exploring the outdoors, with just a few cool breezes off the lake. It also happened to coincide with peak lake-life season, when boating, fishing, and paddling are at their best!
It was wonderful to see "The First City on the Mississippi" come alive with fun summer happenings too – there was the colorful Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival on Lake Bemidji, and free Concerts in the Park at the waterfront amphitheater, which I couldn’t get enough of.
We drove four hours north from Minneapolis and stayed for three charming days in SouthShore Hotel on Lake Bemidji.
We arrived first thing in the morning and the air already felt cool and fresh, which was an amazing experience compared to summer heat everywhere else.
Our first stop was Lake Bemidji State Park just outside town, and walking those trails felt like magic with tall pines, birds everywhere, and vibrant green views.
After that we drove back toward downtown Bemidji, which sits right along the lake, and it honestly felt like a hidden and affordable dream town.
Seeing the Paul Bunyan and Babe statues early was a brilliant idea, it’s unusual, cool, and kind of the most interesting roadside thing you see in my photos.
Lunch came next at a local cafe near the waterfront, and the food was simple but awesome, one of those joyful meals that becomes a favorite memory.
Later we rented bikes and cruised along the lake loop trail, which was my favorite experience because it’s flat, and scenic.
In the afternoon we relaxed by the water, enjoyed swimming, and Bemidji felt like the best hidden summer escape nobody talks about.
Dinner happened downtown again, with live music nearby, and the vibe was exciting yet relaxed, a spectacular mix of local energy and small-town charm.
As the sun set late, because July nights are long here, we watched the sky turn pink and gold over the lake, seriously unforgettable.
What I loved best:
Breakfast at Raphael’s Bakery Café was my favorite highlight. I had a wild rice quiche, flaky and rich, with a side of fruit that actually tasted like summer.
2. Brookings, OR
Visiting this place in July was honestly one of the best coastal experiences we’ve had on the West Coast, a hidden gem near the California border close to Crescent City. I loved that the weather was pleasantly mild (54 °F – 68.5 °F), the days were long, and July is the driest month of the year.
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 that completely won me over.
We started our trip driving Highway 101, and that first stretch near Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor already felt like magic.
Our first stop was Natural Bridges, and seeing it in July with misty air and crashing waves was an amazing underrated experience.
After that we headed down to Secret Beach, which is one of the coolest and most unusual places near Brookings.
The short hike down felt exciting and once we hit the sand it felt like a private dream beach.
Later we went back into town for lunch, and Brookings felt vibrant but still affordable, which I loved.
In the afternoon we walked through Azalea Park, an interesting and colorful spot right near downtown Brookings.
What surprised me most in July was how peaceful everything felt, even during peak summer season.
As the day went on we drove north again into Samuel H Boardman, stopping at every overlook like it was a brilliant idea.
Each viewpoint felt unique and spectacular, with cliffs, sea stacks, and ocean colors that looked unreal.
That evening we watched sunset at Harris Beach State Park, which was my favorite and the absolute best moment, see in my photos.
The next morning we grabbed coffee and did one last beach walk, and it felt calm and joyful.
What I loved best:
Lunch was a bowl of clam chowder at Black Trumpet Bistro, a real standout! 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.
3. Big Bear Lake
We absolutely love Big Bear Lake, and have been many times. Set high in the San Bernardino Mountains, this is one of the most refreshing summer spots I’ve explored in Southern California!
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.
- Location: In the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, east of Los Angeles and surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest
- Average July temperature: 54°F – 81°F (12°C – 27°C)
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.
What I loved best:
Brunch at Grizzly Manor Café was a standout! 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.
4. Copenhagen
This is one of my favorite European cities to visit in summer because the whole place feels light, breezy, and effortlessly stylish. We found that the long daylight hours (with up to 17 hours of daylight!), warm (58°F – 70°F) weather, and outdoor culture make it an ideal place to explore for a day. I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and getting an early start so you can take full advantage of everything on offer.
Getting around Copenhagen is especially easy in July. From Copenhagen Airport, you can take the Metro (Lines M2 or M3) straight into the city center in about 15 minutes for roughly 24 DKK (around $3–4 USD). Once you’re in the city, simply walking (or biking!) is the best way to get around. July is peak biking season, and renting a bike lets you experience Copenhagen like a local while covering a lot of ground.
If you decide on visiting Copenhagen in July, Nyhavn and the harborfront are must-sees. We stayed at 71 Nyhavn Hotel for three fun days and loved quick access to outdoor dining, and boats lining the canal. Walking along the waterfront is one of my favorite ways to enjoy the city, and it’s also a great time to visit Tivoli Gardens, which is in full swing with summer rides and events. You can also explore Christianshavn, relax in one of the city’s many parks, or swim at a harbor bath if the weather’s nice. There’s no shortage of cafés, bakeries, and food markets to stop at along the way.
Lunch at BRUS was my favorite highlight. I had a crispy chicken sandwich with fermented chili mayo and pickled vegetables, stacked high on toasted sourdough.
One thing to keep in mind is that July is a popular time to visit, and Copenhagen can feel busy. It’s easy to spend hours wandering neighborhoods without a plan and still feel like you’ve missed a lot. On our first visit, we joined a guided tour to find our bearings and make the most of our summer vacation in the "City of Spires". One tour that really stood out was the Copenhagen Culinary Food Tour because not only it was a delicious way to explore the city, but the tour itself has over 500 5-star reviews.
5. Ridgway CO
Tucked in a broad mountain valley with the Sneffels Range in the distance, this is one of the most stunning little towns I’ve visited in Colorado! We explored Ridgway 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.
- Location: In southwestern Colorado in the Uncompahgre Valley, north of Ouray and nestled between the San Juan and Cimarron Mountains
- Average July temperature: 46.2 °F – 72.1 °F (7.9 °C – 22.3 °C)
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.
6. Auburn, Washington
I explored 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.
- Location: In western Washington between Seattle and Tacoma, in the Green River Valley near the foothills of the Cascade Range
- Average July temperature: 50°F – 75–79°F (10°C – 24–26°C)
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.
7. Longmont
I thought that Longmont is one of the best places to visit in July when we stopped at this charming Front Range gem! Why? First off, 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.
I drove just under an hour from Denver and stayed for four delightful days at 3-star Hilton Garden Inn Longmont which gave us plenty of time to stroll through the historic downtown, relax at Union Reservoir, bike along the St. Vrain Greenway, sip local brews at Wibby Brewing, and take a short drive up to Rocky Mountain National Park.
- Location: In north-central Colorado along the Front Range, northeast of Boulder and north of Denver
- Average July temperature: 58°F – 90°F (14°C – 32°C)
My personal highlight was the Rhythm on the River Festival in Thompson Park with live music, art, and local food vendors, and the Longmont Farmers Market which was brimming with farm-fresh produce, baked treats, and Colorado-made crafts.
8. Hudson, Wisconsin
Set right on the bluffs above the St. Croix, this town offers some of the most beautiful river landscapes I’ve seen in western Wisconsin.
I thought that July was 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.
- Location: In western Wisconsin along the St. Croix River, just east of the Twin Cities metropolitan area
- Average July temperature: 63°F – 81°F (17°C – 27°C)
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 in an affordable rental! 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 on the scenci 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.
9. Eat Your Way Through a City: Unique Food Tours
Some of my favorite weekend getaways in the USA have been centered around food tours. Why? I think going on a local food tour gives you the best and fasted introduction to a new place. Sure, there's the food but also you get to hear stories from your guide, say hello to local chefs and people working at restaurants, and chat with your fellow travelers. All in all food tours are the best and here are my favorites!
Ahoy New York Food Tours in NYC combines two things I love - history and food. Walking through Chinatown and Little Italy with them makes me feel like I’m part of the city’s living story.
I love how the tour guides share fascinating details about immigrant communities, traditions, and hidden corners I would have walked past without noticing. Every time, I discover a gem that feels uniquely tied to New York’s culture.
What makes Ventura Food Tours so special is how the guides bring Ventura’s history to life so that I always end up seeing familiar streets in a completely new way.
Each stop offers something memorable (maybe it’s a perfectly flaky pastry from a tucked-away bakery or a sip of locally roasted coffee with a story behind it). Every flavor feels like a reflection of Ventura’s creative and welcoming spirit.
Joining a Santa Barbara Tasting Tour last month introduced me to local favorites, from crisp coastal wines to artisanal olive oils and handmade chocolates.
For me, food tours truly are the kind of experiences that linger long after they ends — full of flavor, history, and the sense that you’ve truly tasted a piece of the city's soul.
10. Crieff
If you are looking for something international, Scotland has always been one of my favorite summer destinations! The people there are kind and July is the sweet spot for visiting.
Chris, our son and 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.
- Location: In central Scotland in Perth and Kinross, on the edge of the Highlands west of Perth
- Average July temperature: 48.9°F – 61.3°F (9.4°C – 16.3°C)
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.
11. New York City on the Fourth of July
When I moved here, I loved the way July buzzes with outdoor energy – perfect for rooftop dining, evening walks along the waterfront, free concerts in the parks, and exploring the city’s endless neighborhoods.
- Location: In southeastern New York State at the mouth of the Hudson River, along the Atlantic coast
- Average July temperature: 69°F – 84°F (20°C – 29°C)
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 had time 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.
12. Bohinj, Slovenia
We spent two blissful weeks in a vacation rental near this serene Alpine lake retreat in July 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.
- Location: In northwestern Slovenia in the Julian Alps, within Triglav National Park near Lake Bohinj
- Average July temperature: 57°F – 75°F (14°C – 24°C)
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. During our time here, we went on a 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.
13. Eden, Utah
I loved visiting this mountain valley town in Utah in midsummer when the whole area felt relaxed and sunlit, with just enough activity to keep things interesting.
We drove an easy one hour north from Salt Lake City and stayed for three relaxing days at Compass Rose Lodge.
We arrived under wide blue skies, with the mountains fully alive—lush green slopes dotted with wildflowers and warm sunlight spilling across the valley. July gave Eden an easy, joyful energy that still felt calm and uncrowded.
We started the day near Pineview Reservoir, where the water shimmered in the summer light. We walked along the shoreline, toes brushing the grass, watching paddleboarders drift by and boats cut softly across the lake. The air was warm but fresh, cooled by a steady mountain breeze.
My favorite moments were the simplest ones—sitting together in the sun, listening to cicadas and birds, feeling completely unhurried as time stretched comfortably around us.
Later, we wandered through town, where Eden’s laid-back charm really shines in summer. Local cafés felt especially inviting, doors open, people lingering over drinks and conversations. Everything encouraged us to slow down.
We shared a casual lunch with sweeping valley views—fresh, satisfying food that tasted even better after a relaxed morning outdoors.
In the afternoon, we drove up toward Powder Mountain, where July revealed endless rolling greens and panoramic overlooks. We stopped often, just to take photos, laugh, and let the views sink in. The drive itself felt intimate, full of easy conversation and quiet appreciation.
- Average July temperature: 56.8°F – 82.4°F (13.8°C – 28°C)
What I loved best:
As evening approached, the heat softened and the light turned golden, my personal highlight. The mountains glowed, the valley grew still, and Eden felt like it was gently exhaling after a long summer day.
14. 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!
- Location: In southeastern Alaska at the northern end of the Inside Passage, near the Canadian border in the Coast Mountains
- Average July temperature: 42.6 °F – 54.9 °F (5.9 °C – 12.7 °C)
My favorite was lunch at Glacial Coffeehouse where I had a smoked salmon bagel with dill cream cheese and thin-sliced cucumber which I ate on a bench overlooking the harbor.
Staying at the elegant Historic Skagway Inn, where my cozy vintage-style room for two days overlooked the blooming summer gardens, and evenings ended perfectly with local halibut and a slice of homemade berry pie. I also adored visiting the Red Onion Saloon for a dose of cheeky local history and laughter that carried into the night.
What I loved best:
I loved catching the 90-minute Skagway Street Car Tour and the taking part in the excitement of July 4th celebrations, where the whole community seemed to gather for music, food, and fireworks beneath the midnight sun.
For me, Skagway is one of the best places to visit in July because it's scenic and unique!
15. Tramuntana Hotel, Mallorca
Nestled in the charming village of Sóller, surrounded by the spectacular Tramuntana mountains, I thought that this place was the absolute best setting for a Mediterranean honeymoon! We loved how it felt peaceful and intimate, yet still just a short stroll from vibrant cafés and the cool little shops of the town square.
From Palma de Mallorca, I drove 20 miles northwest (about 40 minutes) into the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain range. When we stayed at Tamuntana Hotel in Mallorca, we felt like we had uncovered one of the island’s most underrated gems.
Our room for two weeks was dreamy, with soft neutral tones, wooden beams, and big windows that filled the entire space with light. We thought the design was both stylish and cozy, blending rustic Mallorcan charm with modern touches. Waking up to mountain views and the scent of orange blossoms drifting in from the valley was pure magic for us. It instantly became one of our favorite mornings of the trip.
We spent afternoons lounging by the pool, sipping local wine, and feeling like we had discovered the coolest hidden hideaway on the island. The vibe was joyful and relaxed, a perfect contrast to the busy beaches elsewhere in Mallorca. Exploring nearby hiking trails and then returning to such a tranquil haven made every day feel exciting and balanced.
- Map & Directions
- Check prices at Tramuntana Hotel
What I loved best:
Breakfasts at the hotel were exceptional—fresh fruit, homemade pastries, and local specialties that made each morning feel indulgent.
16. Takakkaw Falls
I thought that this was the most dazzling display of nature’s power with roaring water, wildflowers in bloom, and crisp alpine air! I couldn’t get over how the glacier-fed falls thundered down the sheer rock face — over 370 meters of mist and majesty — surrounded by the soaring peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
We drove 13 miles north from Field, BC to Takakkaw Falls (about 30 minutes along Yoho Valley Road, with its tight switchbacks). and spent three incredible days exploring this lush valley, hiking the Iceline Trail with its jaw-dropping views of the falls, picnicking by the Yoho River, and catching rainbows forming in the spray at sunset. The combination of raw wilderness and serenity made it one of the most unforgettable spots I’ve ever visited.
- Location: In Yoho National Park in British Columbia’s Canadian Rockies, northeast of Field and west of Lake Louise
- Location Map
We stayed at 5-star Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for two days which won the prestigious AAA Four Diamond award so you can trust in a high quality experience.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
