Summer Weekend Getaways and Day Trips
I’ve found that summer weekend getaways and day trips are the perfect way to soak up the season, whether that means dipping your toes in cool waters, wandering charming towns under sunny skies, or getting lost in nature trails buzzing with life.
Choosing where to go depends on what kind of summer energy you’re craving. Do you want a lakeside retreat with swimming and kayaking? A coastal town with boardwalks and ice cream cones? Or maybe a countryside drive to picnic under shady trees? Here are some of the most refreshing summer getaways and easy day trips I came across that I think you’ll love for your next warm-weather adventure.
1. Finding alpine stillness in Aspen
I drove 3 hours 45 minutes west from Denver over Independence Pass into Aspen. Once a booming silver mining town, it’s now a mix of alpine luxury and rugged wilderness.
Aspen in the summer felt like a completely different kind of mountain magic. Without the snow, the valleys and peaks came alive with wildflowers, green meadows, and clear alpine lakes, and I loved how every trail and overlook offered a new spectacular view. The air was crisp but warm enough to spend all day outside, and it made me want to explore from sunrise to sunset.
One of my favorite experiences was hiking to the Maroon Bells. Standing by the shimmering lake with those jagged peaks reflecting perfectly on the water was absolutely unforgettable—it felt like a dream. Other trails led me through forests of aspen trees that seemed to glow in the sunlight, creating a joyful sense of peace as I walked.
The town itself had a lively summer vibe. I enjoyed mornings at outdoor cafés, afternoons browsing art galleries and boutiques, and evenings filled with live music and al fresco dining. The Aspen Music Festival added a unique cultural touch, blending perfectly with the natural beauty around me.
I also loved getting adventurous—mountain biking, rafting on the Roaring Fork River, and taking the gondola up Aspen Mountain for sweeping views and easy access to high-altitude trails. Each activity felt exciting without ever being overwhelming, and the variety kept every day fresh.
For me, Aspen in summer is an underrated gem of the Rockies. It’s spectacularly scenic, full of adventure, and at the same time deeply relaxing. Whether I was on the trails, in town, or simply soaking in the mountain air, every moment felt refreshing and memorable.
2. Getting swept up in soul and bourbon in Louisville
From Lexington, it was an easy 1-hour drive west into Louisville, the state’s largest city.
Louisville, Kentucky, in the summer had such a joyful energy, with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and the Ohio River setting the stage for long, memorable days. I loved how the city blended its Southern hospitality with a lively urban vibe, making it an exciting place to explore when the sun was out.
One of my favorite things to do was walk along Waterfront Park. The green spaces, walking paths, and views of the river made it a spectacular spot to relax, and catching a summer concert there felt like the perfect way to spend an evening. The sunsets over the water were pure magic.
Summer also meant festivals, and Louisville knows how to celebrate. From bourbon tastings and food events to live music downtown, there was always something happening that brought the community together. I loved joining the crowds, trying new flavors, and soaking in the festive atmosphere.
The food scene was just as memorable. Hot fried chicken, barbecue, and locally inspired dishes made every meal feel hearty and flavorful. Pairing those meals with small-batch bourbon from nearby distilleries gave me a true taste of Kentucky summer.
Exploring the cultural side of the city was equally rewarding. I enjoyed the air-conditioned comfort of the Muhammad Ali Center and the Louisville Slugger Museum during the heat of the day, then headed back out once the evenings cooled down.
For me, Louisville in the summer is a gem of the South—lively, flavorful, and full of unique experiences. It’s the kind of getaway where the warmth of the season matches the warmth of the people, creating a trip I’ll always remember.
3. Soaking in Southern charm in Beaufort
I drove 1 hour 15 minutes southwest from Charleston to Beaufort, a historic town draped in Spanish moss along the Beaufort River.
Beaufort, South Carolina, in the summer felt like stepping into a slower, sweeter rhythm of life. The air was warm and heavy with the scent of salt and magnolia, and I loved how the town’s moss-draped oaks created shady escapes along quiet streets. Everything about it felt timeless, like summer days here were meant to be savored.
One of my favorite things to do was wander along the Beaufort River at Waterfront Park. The benches and swings overlooking the water made it easy to sit for hours, watching boats drift by and soaking in those spectacular sunsets that turned the sky pink and orange. It was pure magic at the end of a long, sunny day.
Exploring the historic district in the summer heat gave me an unusual sense of connection to the past. The grand antebellum homes, churches, and gardens seemed to shimmer in the sunlight, and walking under the shade of live oaks made the experience both refreshing and memorable.
The food in Beaufort added even more joy to my visit. Fresh shrimp, oysters, and Lowcountry classics like crab cakes and shrimp and grits tasted even better in the summertime, especially when enjoyed outdoors at a small local restaurant with the sea breeze drifting in.
When I wanted adventure, Hunting Island State Park was just a short drive away. Spending a hot summer afternoon on the wide sandy beach, climbing the lighthouse, and cooling off in the surf made the day feel spectacular.
For me, Beaufort in the summer is a gem of the Lowcountry—romantic, peaceful, and filled with coastal magic that makes every moment feel unforgettable.
4. Breathing in lakeside bliss in Burlington
Instead of driving, I took the Green Mountain Transit bus from Montpelier to Burlington (about 1 hour, $4). With fewer than 45,000 residents, it’s compact but buzzing. My day included a walk across the UVM campus, a visit to the Fleming Museum of Art, and a lazy afternoon sampling Vermont cheddar and maple treats at the year-round farmers’ market.
Burlington, Vermont, in the summer was full of energy and fresh-air charm, and I immediately loved how the whole town seemed to spill outside to enjoy the season. With Lake Champlain as the backdrop and the Green Mountains rising nearby, the setting couldn’t have been more spectacular.
My favorite part of summer in Burlington was spending time along the waterfront. Walking or biking the Burlington Bike Path gave me joyful views of sailboats gliding across the lake, and every sunset felt like pure magic as the sky lit up over the Adirondacks on the opposite shore.
Downtown had a lively, festive vibe. Church Street Marketplace was buzzing with outdoor dining, street performers, and boutique shops. I enjoyed lingering at a café with iced coffee, watching the world go by, and soaking in the unique mix of locals and visitors filling the streets.
The food scene was just as impressive in summer. Farm-to-table restaurants highlighted fresh Vermont produce, and I couldn’t resist trying local cheeses, craft beers, and small-batch ice cream that tasted like the season itself.
What stood out most was how connected Burlington felt to nature. I loved taking short trips to nearby hiking trails, where wildflowers and sweeping mountain views made the effort worthwhile. Kayaking on Lake Champlain on a warm afternoon was another highlight that left me refreshed and smiling.
For me, Burlington in the summer is a gem of New England—laid-back, vibrant, and filled with spectacular natural beauty. It’s the kind of getaway where every moment feels simple, joyful, and unforgettable.
5. Wandering whimsy in Carmel-by-the-Sea
From Monterey, it was just a 15-minute drive south into Carmel, where cypress trees frame the Pacific coastline. Though small, the town has more than 100 art galleries and a cozy, European feel.
Carmel-by-the-Sea in the summer felt like stepping into a coastal fairytale, where the ocean breeze and charming village streets created the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing getaway. I loved how the town stayed cool and refreshing, even when much of California was hot, making it an absolute best escape from the summer heat.
My favorite mornings began with wandering through the storybook-style cottages and boutique shops downtown. The art galleries, hidden courtyards, and flower-filled alleys gave me that joyful feeling of discovery, as if every corner held a little surprise waiting to be found.
Carmel Beach was spectacular in the summertime. I spent long afternoons walking the white sandy shoreline, watching dogs run free and waves roll in. The sunsets were pure magic, with golden light spilling across the Pacific and the iconic cypress trees silhouetted against the sky.
Dining was another highlight of my trip. Outdoor patios were buzzing with energy, and I couldn’t resist fresh seafood paired with local Monterey wines. Sitting beneath twinkling lights while enjoying a glass of Pinot Noir felt like one of those simple summer moments I’ll never forget.
I also loved exploring nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. The trails wound through rugged cliffs and hidden coves, where sea lions and otters played in the surf. It was a spectacular mix of coastal adventure and natural beauty that made the season feel even more alive.
For me, Carmel-by-the-Sea in summer is a gem of California’s coast—cool, romantic, and filled with unique charm that makes every visit unforgettable.
6. Soaking up history and hills in Charlottesville
I hopped on Amtrak’s Cardinal line from D.C. to Charlottesville (about 2.5 hours, $25–$40 one way).
Charlottesville, Virginia, in the summer felt warm, vibrant, and full of life. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city came alive with long sunny days, outdoor festivals, and rolling vineyards that made every outing feel spectacular.
One of my favorite summer experiences was exploring Monticello. The gardens were in full bloom, and walking through Jefferson’s estate with the mountains in the distance was both educational and magical. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the history and natural beauty surrounding the city.
Downtown Charlottesville was just as joyful. The pedestrian mall buzzed with people dining outdoors, browsing local shops, and enjoying live music. I loved sitting at a café with a cold drink, soaking in the atmosphere, and watching the community come together under strings of summer lights.
The wine country nearby made the season even better. Touring vineyards, sipping crisp rosés, and sitting outside overlooking rows of grapevines was pure summer magic. Pairing local wines with farm-to-table meals made me feel connected to the land in the most delicious way.
I also loved how close nature was. Driving along Skyline Drive or hiking in Shenandoah National Park gave me sweeping mountain views, lush greenery, and a refreshing escape from the heat. It was the coolest balance of city culture and outdoor adventure.
For me, Charlottesville in the summer is a gem of Virginia—historic, flavorful, and surrounded by spectacular scenery. It’s the kind of getaway where every day feels full, yet wonderfully relaxed at the same time.
Where Will Summer Take You?
Each of these destinations brought something different, cool breezes, soulful bites, scenic trails, or a moment to slow down and just be. That’s the magic of a summer day trip or weekend escape: it doesn’t have to be far to feel like a world away. Wherever you go next, make it somewhere that reminds you how good it feels to wander.
My personal highlights:
Some of my favorite summer escapes include Cape Cod for its beaches and New England charm, the Great Smoky Mountains for their unique outdoor beauty, and the underrated lakeside towns of the Midwest like Door County, Wisconsin. Each one delivers the best mix of scenery, relaxation, and fun.
If you love summer trips, try one of these destinations next:
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.
