10 U.S. 'Coolcation' Destinations to Beat the Heat This Summer

Travel + Leisure

11 hours ago

The "coolcation"—a trip centered around cooler climates and breezy destinations—is experiencing a fresh wave of popularity as more travelers look to beat the heat this summer. Rather than flocking to sweltering cities or sunbaked (and ultra-crowded) beaches, vacationers are heading for higher elevations, coastal escapes, and forested retreats where daytime temps stay comfortably mild, while mornings and evenings may even call for a light sweater.
While most folks tend to equate coolcations with far-flung locales like Iceland or the Swiss Alps, they're not the only option. In fact, you can experience an epic coolcation right here in the United States—no passport required. From lakefront hideaways to mountain towns, these refreshing getaways offer all the adventure and charm of a classic summer vacation, minus the scorching heat.
The historic barn in Teton National Park.
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"Jackson Hole is the perfect blend of rugged and refined," says Travel + Leisure A-list advisor Laura Asilis. Expect brisk mornings and evenings with pleasantly warm, often sunny afternoons that set the stage for activities like rafting, hiking, or wildlife spotting. Trips to nearby national parks like Grand Teton and Yellowstone are a must, as is a visit to the lively Town Square, lined with local haunts like Persephone Bakery and Jackson Drug. The nightlife scene is surprisingly buzzy, with local favorites such as the Silver Dollar Bar and Saloon and the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar offering live music and a lively crowd. At the end of a long day (or night), retreat to Amangani, where, per Asilis, "the views are as spectacular as the service." Two fishing boats docked on land in the middle of the Alaskan mountains.
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Whether you're traveling by cruise or on land, Alaska remains one of the country's top coolcation getaways. "Places such as Sheldon Chalet, Stillpoint Lodge, and several other remote places to stay are cool in the evenings, and the daytime temperatures are comfortable for activities such as fly fishing, hiking, rafting, and wildlife viewing," says T+L A-list advisor Kevin Jackson. For a truly memorable experience, the travel pro recommends chartering a yacht through the Inside Passage, a scenic coastal route known for glacier views and frequent wildlife sightings, including bears and whales. For a more affordable option, consider a cruise along the same route, offered by most major lines. The small downtown area of Adams in Berkshire County, Massachusetts.
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Just a few hours from Boston, Asilis describes the Berkshires as "a classic Northeast retreat with cool evenings and cultural charm." She continues, "I love recommending it for couples or families who want art, music, and wellness all in one place." No trip to the region is complete without attending a summer concert at Tanglewood (where you can pack a leisurely picnic to enjoy under the stars), visiting the MASS MoCA and Norman Rockwell Museum, or enjoying spa treatments at wellness resorts Miraval and Canyon Ranch, both of which are located in the quaint town of Lenox. Take advantage of the summer weather with a visit to one of the region's lakes—Pontoosuc and Onota are two popular spots for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water. Jagged peaked mountains in Telluride, Colorado.
MarkWith its cool mornings, colorful wildflower hikes, and a thriving cultural scene, "Aspen in the summer is a dream," says Asilis. She continues, telling T+L, "The Maroon Bells are breathtaking, and I love enjoying a relaxed lunch at Betula after a gallery stroll." Music lovers, meanwhile, should plan their visit around one of the town's summer events: The Aspen Music Festival and School (July 2 through Aug. 24), Up in the Sky (Aug. 8 and 9), and the JAS Labor Day Experience (Aug. 29-31). In terms of accommodations, the travel advisor called The Little Nell her "go-to for its elegant atmosphere and unbeatable access to the mountains." The red rocks of the Grand Canyon stretch into the distance.
You might not expect anywhere in Arizona to make a list of coolcation getaways, but the Grand Canyon's North Rim is a surprising exception. Sitting over 1,000 feet higher than the more visited South Rim, this remote area enjoys cooler temperatures and breathtaking views. "The forest is filled with aspen trees and ponderosa pines, and the views of the canyon are spectacular," says Jackson. While the Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge offers basic accommodations coupled with scenic views, the North Rim Campground is better suited for travelers seeking a more immersive, back-to-nature experience. A small beach outlet on Lake Tahoe.
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"Lake Tahoe offers alpine air, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back West Coast vibe," says Asilis. "Summer here is all about paddleboarding, hiking, and sunset cruises." The warm, sunny days are ideal for spending time on the water or exploring nearby trails, while cool evenings are perfect for stargazing or listening to live music: The 2025 summer concert series features a stacked lineup including Earth, Wind & Fire and Hozier. Prepare to be dazzled by the destination's stunningly clear waters, which are great for boating, swimming, or paddling; alternatively, post up by one of the pristine beaches. A mountain towering over a lake in Glacier National Park.
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Located in northern Montana, this national park offers some of the most scenic hiking in the country. "When the Going-to-the-Sun Road opens, which is typically in early July, the hiking and access is incredible," says Jackson. Other outdoor activities abound, like fishing, rafting, and biking. For true coolcation vibes, consider exploring the park's east side; at an elevation of around 3,200 feet, it tends to be even cooler, especially in the mornings and evenings. According to the pro, most guests will stay in the town of Whitefish and drive to the park and use the access to Whitefish Lake as an option to stay cool and mix up the experiences. Alternatively, reserve a room at the historic Glacier Park Lodge. Located on the park's southeast side, the property stands out for its grand timber architecture and sweeping mountain views. A row of grape vines in Willamette Valley.
Known for its 700-plus wineries, Oregon's Willamette Valley region is "really up-and-coming," says T+L A-list advisor Maria Diego. Sip vino in style at wineries like Soter Vineyards, Bethel Heights Vineyard, or Adelsheim Vineyard in between scenic hiking treks in Willamette National Forest, where you can, quite literally, chase waterfalls. The region is also dotted with charming small towns like McMinnville, which is known for its vibrant shopping and dining scene. Newberg is another popular base, and it's home to The Allison Inn & Spa, which comes highly recommended by Diego. Amenities include a holistic spa, an acclaimed restaurant that utilizes locally sourced ingredients (including some from the on-site garden), and spacious rooms featuring fireplaces and soaking tubs. And while daytime temperatures often warm up nicely, mornings and evenings can be brisk, so be sure to bring layers. Beautiful Sunset Fall Hike in Telluride, Colorado.This stunning mountain town sits 8,750 feet above sea level, where summer brings warm days in the low 70s and crisp, cool nights—perfect for outdoor adventure without overheating. While it's a hotspot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, the summer months are prime time for mountain biking and hiking. Meanwhile, says Jackson, "The river is great for rafting and paddle boarding." The town also hosts several festivals throughout the summer, each catering to different interests—from baseball to jazz to mushrooms. View of cliffs over an ocean in Big Sur.
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Cruise along Highway 1 and embark on a scenic summer road trip through Big Sur, a 90-mile stretch of rugged coastline along California's Central Coast. During the summer months, daytime temperatures range from 60 degrees to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Those sunny days are well spent spotting sea otters and exploring hidden coves at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, hiking among the redwoods at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, snapping photos at iconic spots like Bixby Bridge, or relaxing on the fairy tale-worthy purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach, which are especially vibrant after a rainfall. While hotel options abound. Asilis counts Post Ranch Inn as one of her "favorite properties anywhere in the world, ideal for disconnecting and recalibrating in pure beauty."