Ready to make the most of summer break? While exploring July vacation ideas, I discovered places filled with sun-drenched beaches, mountain adventures, and lively festivals—each one offering a vibrant escape into peak summer fun, natural beauty, and unforgettable memories. "These escapes are packed with sunshine, outdoor fun, and peak-season vibes—whether you're chasing fireworks or mountain breezes."
Highlights:
Unique July Vacation Ideas:
1. Mission Point Resort
Rating: ★★★★★
© Mission Point Resort
Location:
Mackinac Island, MIHighlights:
If you're looking for an unplugged, family-friendly summer escape where kids can roam free and fun is built-in, Mission Point Resort is your go-to spot. This lakeside gem on Mackinac Island packs in nostalgic charm with loads of activities for all ages.Recommended For:
Families, multi-generational travelers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to unwind without cars and chaos.What I Love: ♥
Kids under 12 eat free, tons of outdoor activities, stunning lake views, and the old-fashioned island charm that comes with every stay.- Stay in spacious accommodations including two-bedroom suites—some with private hot tubs—perfect for families or groups.
- Play at the Kids Club where little ones can try croquet, kite building, hiking, mini golf, or splashing in the pool.
- Explore the island with resort-offered activities like golf, biking, ghost tours, bocce, tennis, and spa treatments.
- Dine at one of several on-site restaurants including Round Island Bar & Grill, Chianti for Italian, or Bistro at The Greens for small plates with a view.
- Grab & Go quick breakfasts, pizzas, and snacks from Lakeside Marketplace before a busy day of adventure.
Address:
Mission Point Resort, One Lakeshore Drive, Mackinac Island, MIPhone: 800-833-7711
2. The Sagamore
© maciek/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Lake George, NY (Adirondacks)Highlights:
Planning a getaway to the Adirondacks? The Sagamore is a dreamy lakeside resort where luxury meets family fun—perfect for relaxing while the kids dive into outdoor adventures.Recommended For:
Families, luxury travelers, couples, and anyone looking for a high-end Adirondack experience with child-friendly perks.What I Love: ♥
The robust kids’ program (complete with a real teepee!), scenic lake views, and pampering spa and golf options for grown-ups.- Stay in upscale accommodations ranging from lodge rooms to suites, with easy access to the lake and resort amenities.
- Play at The Teepee Club—offering clown shows, nature walks, Olympic games, sandcastle building, and tennis in a fully supervised setting for kids 4+ (younger kids can join with a babysitter).
- Relax with a spa day, a round of golf, or lounging by the water while your kids have the time of their lives.
- Choose from flexible children’s program options—half-day, full-day, or evening sessions—available daily in peak summer and major holidays.
Address:
The Sagamore Resort, 110 Sagamore Rd, Bolton Landing, NY 12814Phone: 866-384-1944
3. Tyler Place Family Resort in Vermont
© Tyler Place Family Resort
Location:
Highgate Springs, VTHighlights:
Looking for a truly unplugged, all-inclusive family escape where both you and the kids can totally recharge? Tyler Place Family Resort is a Vermont lakefront gem that balances parent downtime with kid adventure in the best way.Recommended For:
Families with kids of all ages, especially those looking for an all-inclusive, low-stress summer vacation in nature.What I Love: ♥
Age-specific kids’ programs, separate sleeping areas for parents and kids, and the warm, camp-style community feel that brings families back year after year.- Stay in one of 70 private cottages or suites with separate bedrooms, screened porches, and plenty of room to relax.
- Play with age-appropriate kids’ programming that includes kayaking, fishing, rock climbing, tennis, and swimming.
- Unwind with yoga, archery, biking, a golf driving range, or simply swinging in a lakeside hammock.
- Connect at evening cocktail parties and shared meals where new friendships blossom and old ones rekindle.
- Enjoy fresh farm-to-table meals, delicious vegetarian options, and show-stopping chocolate desserts—all included.
Address:
Tyler Place Family Resort, 175 Tyler Place, Highgate Springs, VTPhone: 802-868-4000
4. The Royal Scotsman: The Ultimate Train & Cruise Tour
© The Royal Scotsman
Location:
Scotland (Highlands & Scottish Isles)Highlights:
If you're craving an unforgettable way to experience Scotland, The Royal Scotsman and Hebridean Island Cruises deliver a dreamy combo of luxury rail and coastal cruising. This is slow travel at its finest—with castles, lairds, and scenic drama at every turn.Recommended For:
Luxury travelers, couples, history buffs, and anyone yearning for a truly immersive Scottish experience with exceptional service.What I Love: ♥
The seamless pairing of train and sea, personal laird-led tours, and the rare chance to explore off-the-beaten-path islands in total comfort.- Journey aboard the Royal Scotsman through pine forests, glens, and sheep-dotted meadows, visiting historic sites like Glamis Castle and Rothiemurchus Estate.
- Explore the remote beauty of the Scottish Isles aboard the Hebridean Princess, a 50-guest luxury cruise that feels like a private yacht.
- Experience itineraries that include stops in Mull, Lewis, Harris, Skye, and Barra—with guided visits to castles and villages along the way.
- Enjoy exceptional hospitality with nearly one staff member per guest, creating a warm, refined atmosphere that keeps travelers coming back.
Address:
Departs from Edinburgh, ScotlandPhone: +49 (0) 221 33 80 300
Romantic July Vacation Ideas:
5. Hotel Captain Cook in Alaska
© Hotel Captain Cook
Location:
Anchorage, AKHighlights:
If you’re heading to Alaska, Hotel Captain Cook is the perfect downtown Anchorage launchpad—equal parts comfort, class, and killer mountain views. It’s a great spot to recharge between adventures without giving up amenities.Recommended For:
Couples, business travelers, Alaskan explorers, and anyone who appreciates great views and full-service comfort.What I Love: ♥
Panoramic views from suite windows, in-room massages, and extra perks on the Captain’s Deck levels.- Stay in one of 547 rooms, including 96 suites, with views of Cook Inlet, the Chugach Mountains, the city, or Mt. McKinley.
- Relax with a Swedish, deep tissue, or sports massage right in your room to unwind after a day of exploring.
- Fuel Up at one of three on-site restaurants or enjoy lounge access with breakfast, snacks, and drinks on the Captain’s Deck levels.
- Work Out in the on-site athletic club or take advantage of convenient meeting facilities if you’re mixing work with leisure.
Address:
Hotel Captain Cook, 939 W 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501Phone: 907-276-6000 | 800-843-1950
6. Hotellerie De Mascognaz in Valle d'Aosta
© Hotellerie De Mascognaz
Location:
Valle d'Aosta, ItalyHighlights:
Dreaming of a cozy alpine escape in Italy? Hotellerie De Mascognaz delivers mountain charm, wellness, and unforgettable views tucked high in the Valle d'Aosta.Recommended For:
Couples, nature lovers, wellness seekers, and travelers craving an off-the-grid alpine retreat with rustic elegance.What I Love: ♥
Wood-beamed rooms, the on-site spa with Turkish bath and whirlpool, and the romantic Monte Rosa Suite in a restored barn.- Stay in one of seven charming double rooms with handmade beds and alpine décor, or upgrade to the spacious Monte Rosa Suite featuring a fireplace and stone-and-wood design.
- Unwind in the relaxation center with a whirlpool, sauna, and Turkish bath, or book a massage or Shiatsu session in advance.
- Explore year-round outdoor activities like skiing in winter and hiking, biking, and climbing during the summer months.
- Dine on regional Italian cuisine at Restaurant Lo Peyo, where rustic ambiance meets elevated flavors.
Address:
Hotellerie De Mascognaz, 11020 Champoluc, Aosta Valley, ItalyPhone: +39 0125 308734
Plan Your Trip