Are you looking for the best places to visit in August in the USA? Here are our top 24 suggestions!
If you’re planning summer vacations, you might be wondering where the best places to visit in August in the USA are. Well hopefully, this list will give you loads of ideas for an August getaway!
There are plenty of amazing places to visit in August in the USA, and we’ve compiled them all into this handy list!
Hopefully, you’ll find a little bit of everything on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA, and find the perfect choice for your trip away!
So, let’s get into it!
Here are the best places to visit in August in the USA!
Boston, MA
To kick off our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA, we have Boston!
Although most places in the USA will still be intensely hot in August, Boston temperatures manage to hover around the high 70s for most of the month. This means that you can explore the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum or the ever-popular Fan Expo in relative comfort!
If you’re a total foodie, you need to try one of Boston’s iconic lobster rolls. Served at restaurants like Neptune Oyster and Eventide Fenway, this iconic dish is part of the reason Boston is considered one of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
To walk things off, explore the White Mountains or the Appalachian Trail. Both lauded for their gorgeous flora and serene atmospheres, they provide the perfect escape from the crazy metropolis of the downtown area. Whether you’re a major hiking enthusiast or a complete newbie, the trails in Boston make it one of the best places to visit in August in the USA by a mile!
Read more about visiting Boston: 25 cool things to do in Boston, MA
North Cascades National Park, WA
Next on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA, it’s North Cascades National Park. If you’re looking for adventure and stunning scenic landscapes – this is the place for you.
Why visit in August? Because the conditions will be wonderful, and the weather is perfect for hiking and exploring.
If you’ve never heard of the North Cascades National Park, it’s because it’s a bit of a hidden gem. It’s located about 2 hours from Seattle, and home of some of the most insane landscapes in North America. You’re going to love it.
Definitely a winning choice for the best places to visit in August in the USA.
San Diego, CA
For incredible food, sandy beaches, and fascinating museums, check out the next place on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA! San Diego is a jack-of-all-trades kind of vacation spot and is simply bursting with exciting attractions.
If you’d like to learn about the area’s history, explore the Old Town, Balboa Park and the Cabrillo National Monument. To further your education, check out the Maritime Museum of San Diego!
Those looking for the best places to visit in August in the USA for relaxation should check out La Jolla Cove or Belmont Park. Although both locations will still have tourists milling around, you’ll miss the worst of the summer crowds.
The result? You’ll be able to scope out a wonderful sunbathing spot for the afternoon without any squabbling!
Oh, by the way – if you’re looking for awesome summer eats, check out Carnitas Snack Shack or Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream for light bites.
Read more about visiting San Diego: 24 things to do in Old Town, San Diego
Half Moon Bay, CA
If you’re on the hunt for the best places to visit in August in the USA with gorgeous beaches, you’ll adore Half Moon Bay.
Located just south of San Fran, Half Moon Bay is slightly chillier than alternative California beach locations. Although this may take some getting used to, it leads to smaller crowds year-round!
In case you were wondering, Half Moon Bay is one of the best places to visit in August in the USA for surf fanatics. Mavericks Beach is home to some of California’s most impressive waves, and it’s frequented by local surfers throughout the year.
If you’d prefer to stay landside, the gorgeous Devil’s Side Trail and surrounding coastal bluffs are a veritable mecca for nature lovers.
Whatever you choose to do here, be sure to bring your camera along!
Priest Lake, ID
The next place on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA? It’s Priest Lake! Known for its beautiful forests, wildlife-spotting opportunities, and peaceful resorts, this charming destination is ideal for families.
Boasting a 23,000-acre lake and views of the impressive Selkirk Mountains, it’s considered one of the country’s hidden gems. With so much natural beauty, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best places to visit in August in the USA!
To bulk out your itinerary, check out the sprawling Priest Lake State Park and the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars before indulging your cultural side at the Entree Gallery.
We also recommend trying your hand at fishing on the lake; if you’re lucky, you may even catch the famous Big One – an infamous trout that locals have been trying to reel in for years! A great option for places to visit in August in the USA!
The Finger Lakes, NY
If you’re looking for somewhere in Upstate New York to visit around August, then The Finger Lakes are a perfect choice for the best places to visit in August in the USA.
It’s actually a great destination for those who love the great outdoors, because there are plenty of activities and outdoorsy pursuits to get involved in.
But don’t discount The Finger Lakes for relaxation too! There are loads of wonderful towns to stroll around, farmers markets to explore, and spas to chill out in.
A pretty amazing choice for the top places to visit in August in the USA, we’re sure you’ll agree.
Read more about visiting the Finger Lakes: Our Ultimate Guide to The Finger Lakes, NY
Chicago, IL
Next on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA, it’s Chicago. For people who avoid the cold weather, Chicago is completely off-limits for 6 months of the year.
BUT, once summer rolls around, you can’t find a nicer city to relax in than Chicago. Trust us!
Which incredible architecture, amazing bars and restaurants, loads of art galleries, a stunning city park, and a lake (perfect for all kinds of activities) you really can’t find a better city to visit in August!
Chicago is definitely one of the best places to visit in August in the USA, especially for people wanting a city break!
Read more about visiting Chicago: The best desserts in Chicago!
Cambria, CA
Next on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA, it’s Cambria, CA. If you’re looking for a quaint seaside village that’s home to hundreds of adorable seals, then you’ll love the next spot on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
The weather starts to get milder in Cambria around August, so you can check out the local hiking and biking trails without baking under the sun’s sweltering rays.
Should you still feel a tad warm, take a dip at Moonstone Beach and spend time people-watching (or seal-watching!) along the shoreline. As we’ve mentioned, Cambria is home to a large seal population, and you’ll often find them lounging on the balmy sands. It’s completely bizarre but provides a tip-top photo opportunity.
When you’ve had your fill of the beaches, we recommend wandering through the historic downtown area.
Packed with antique stores, local boutiques, excellent restaurants, and a couple of excellent ice creameries, it’s unsurprising that Cambria is considered one of the best places to visit in August in the USA for a quiet getaway that still has that typical summertime charm. It’s one of the best places to visit in August in the USA for sure!
Park City, UT
Another amazing choice for places to visit in August in the USA, is Park City, UT. For incredible mountain views and an impressive range of water-based activities, look no further than Park City.
Known as one of the best places to visit in August in the USA for paddle boarding and fly-fishing, you’ll often catch tourists splashing away in the Provo River or trying their hand at angling.
If you’re looking for something more cultural, why not head to the Kimball Art Center or the Egyptian Theatre? Offering incredible art displays and wonderful performances year-round, it’s the perfect way to spend a creative afternoon.
Before leaving, don’t forget to check out the Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway. Spanning over 14 miles and running into the Wasatch Mountain Range, it gives visitors unbeatable views of the surrounding area and is one of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
Acadia National Park, ME
If you’ve never been to Acadia National Park, then you may not know that it’s one of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
Not only does it offer pleasantly warm weather to visitors, but it’s packed with shops, restaurants, and natural beauty spots that will take your breath away.
Start your vacation at Cadillac Mountain and explore the Scenic Park Loop Road or gorgeous Precipice Trail. You can see why it has made our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
When you’ve uncovered the best of the 27-mile loop by car, head to Bar Harbor to wind down during the evenings.
Boasting several excellent eateries that serve up hearty meals and signature cocktails all night long, it’s unsurprising that the Acadia National Park area deemed one of the best places to visit in August in the USA!
Mackinac Island, MI
Mackinac Island is next on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA. It’s simply stunning, and one of those amazing locations that feels both relaxing and nostalgic.
It’s the kind of summer vacation everyone deserves to have once in a lifetime – with perfect weather, gorgeous scenery, and wonderful activities.
It’s a little like stepping back in time (maybe because there are no cars on the island) and everywhere you look it is simply postcard picture perfect. It’s one of the best places to visit in August in the USA, hands down.
Read more about visiting Mackinac Island: Top 20 Mackinac Island Hotels for Every Budget
Providence, RI
Next on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA, it’s Providence.
Rhode Island offers plenty to visitors, but it’s known as one of the best places to visit in August in the USA thanks to its vibrant riverbanks, museums, and bustling downtown area.
If you’d like to experience the work of local artists, visit the central downtown area to check out the artistic murals. Beautifully designed and speaking heavily to the contemporary culture of the area, these enormous murals are not to be missed.
Whether you’d like to uncover secrets relating to America’s history or simply want to expose yourself to art and culture, Rhode Island is one of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
Memphis, TN
Another great choice for places to visit in August in the USA, is Memphis. Tennessee can be brutally hot during the height of summer, so this is a suggestion for those that are comfortable with the heat!
So, if you’re seeking high temperatures and a city break, Memphis might be one of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
Not only is this area home to the fascinating Victorian Village and Elvis Presley’s old residence Graceland, but it teaches tourists plenty about civil rights and American history at the National Civil Rights Museum and Lorraine Motel.
It may seem arbitrary, but don’t leave Memphis without checking out Gus’s Fried Chicken. Known as the city’s best chicken restaurant, it serves an incredible southern staple that just needs to be experienced!
Packed with friendly locals, important landmarks, and excellent food, it’s unsurprising that Memphis is one of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
Stonington, MN
Stonington is one of Minnesota’s hidden gems, and it’s certainly deserving of a place on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
Home to just over 1000 residents, it’s quaint, quiet, and completely idyllic. The weather cools down significantly during August, making it a pleasant temperature for sunbathing and engaging in water-based activities.
If you’re not sure what to do here, we recommend trying your hand at kayaking around DuBois Beach or getting an unbeatable workout done by swimming laps along the shoreline! Another great reason to add this to your list of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
If you’d like to explore some of the architecture that makes Stonington one of the best places to visit in August in the USA, simply check out Stonington Point or the Captain Nathanial B. Palmer House Museum. Both represent Stonington’s interesting maritime history and are well worth visiting.
Seattle, WA
Seattle is our next suggestion for the best places to visit in August in the USA. Now, we know Seattle is mainly known for its rainy wet weather, but in July and August, Seattle becomes a pretty incredible summer haven.
Expect fresh summer days, bright sunshine, and low humidity – it’s amazing! And a bit of a hidden gem!
So if you want a summer break, but also a city break, Seattle might be the perfect option for places to visit in August in the USA for you!
You can do all sorts of great activities in Seattle… From whale watching and farmer’s markets to hiking (in the nearby landscapes) and shopping in the city center. It has a little bit of everything, and we love it.
Read more about visiting Seattle:
- 38 awesome things to do in Pike Place Market, Seattle
- 60 fun things to do in Seattle!
- 22 of the best date ideas in Seattle
- 10 beautiful waterfalls near Seattle
Blue Lakes, CO
The next spot on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA is Blue Lakes. Home to incredible wildflowers, expansive nature trails, and unforgettable vistas, this area is a panacea for anyone who appreciates trekking, wildlife spotting, and camping.
Blue Lakes is known for many things, but the famous Colorado Trail and Uncompahgre National Forest are two of the top reasons to visit the area.
As the tail-end of summer sees little rainfall and long hours of sunlight, it’s one of the best places to visit in August in the USA by a mile (weather-wise at least!).
When you arrive, we recommend taking your time to explore the local flora in the National Forest before setting up camp at one of the local sites.
Giving you excellent views of the sky for stargazing, it’s a beautiful way to round off a successful day on the trails. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh is one of the best places to visit in August in the USA as it’s home to sprawling parks, picture-perfect lakes, and exciting tours that are guaranteed to boost any vacation.
To start your trip off with a bang, visit the Carrie Furnace in Rankin. Housing the few remaining blast furnaces from Pittsburgh’s steelwork days, it’s a fascinating glimpse into days gone by. What’s more, it’s only open during the summer months, so the perfect choice for places to visit in August in the USA.
If you’re willing to head slightly further afield, check out the Twin Lakes in Greensburg or Lake Arthur in Moraine State Park. For those wanting to stay closer to the center, pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the city’s many parks.
Mellon Park, Riverview Park, and Highland Park are all excellent choices that often host live music events throughout the month. This makes it one of the best places to visit in August in the USA for music aficionados and creative types.
San Juan Islands, WA
The San Juan Islands in Washington are our next idea for the best places to visit in August in the USA. It’s a great choice for the outdoorsy types, and also nature lovers.
As well as being incredibly scenic and beautiful – there’s also the opportunity to do world-class whale watching here, so if that’s on your bucket list, you need to head here!
It may be a little ‘further out’ than some of the locations on this list of the best places to visit in August in the USA, but it’s well and truly worth it. It’s a real summer escape, and a perfect choice for places to visit in August in the USA.
Long Beach Island, NJ
Perched along the New Jersey Coastline, Long Beach Island remains one of the best places to visit in August in the USA. Although few people live here permanently, the area is always packed with tourists during the summer months.
While you’re here, enjoy the sights at Island Beach State Park (the Barnegat Lighthouse is a must-see!) before grabbing your binoculars for an afternoon of wildlife spotting.
If you’d rather spend your vacation learning about the local area, check out the Long Beach Island Historical Museum and the Museum of NJ Maritime History.
Boasting incredible natural beauty and plenty of interesting history, it’s unsurprising that Long Beach Island is considered one of the best places to visit in August in the USA.
Louisville, KY
It may not be the first place that comes to mind for a summer vacation, but Louisville is one of the best places to visit in August in the USA for music, restaurants, and top-quality bourbons.
Head on down to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail for a taste of the good stuff; linking 9 incredible distilleries, you’ll be able to sample more full-bodied bourbons along the trail than you ever thought possible.
If you’d prefer to indulge your creative side, head into one of many local bars for live music and excellent food.
Oh – and don’t leave without exploring the Kentucky Derby Museum and Historic Frankfort Avenue either! Another great choice for the best places to visit in August in the USA.
Read more about visiting Louisville: Top 26 things to do in Louisville, KY
Read more about Kentucky: 18 romantic getaways in Kentucky
Lake Tahoe, CA
If you want water, but don’t fancy heading to the coastline, then Lake Tahoe is a great choice for places to visit in August in the USA.
You’ll get that ‘summer vacay’ vibe, being based right by the lake’s shore, but you’ll get the fresh air of the mountains too.
Many people only count on Lake Tahoe as a winter destination – but it is a seriously amazing location for summer vacations too! Swim in the lake anyone?
This is a great pick for the best places to visit in August in the USA.
Read more about visiting Lake Tahoe: 18 fun things to do in Incline Village (near Lake Tahoe)
Seabrook, WA
The next place on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA is Seabrook. Unlike other beachside vacation spots, Seabrook is usually relaxed and uncrowded.
By August, the summer revelers will have dispersed, and you’ll be able to explore the area in relative peace!
We highly recommend visiting the famous Saturday market while you’re here. Running every Saturday from late June to August, you’re bound to pick up some incredible local goodies.
Alternatively, you can soak up some rays at Pacific Beach which offers unspoiled views of the coastline. Bliss.
Whatever you choose to do here, be sure to fuel your visit with plenty of dough from Frontager’s Pizza. Known as a reliable local pizzeria, it promises to fill you up for the day ahead.
Portland, OR
And finally, on our list of the best places to visit in August in the USA, it’s Portland.
Portland is such a fun destination, and they get some great weather in August too – even more reason to visit!
If you’re looking for a mixture of city break and adventure – then Portland will be your cup of tea for sure!
And the food scene is incredible too, so we know you’re going to love it! It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in August in the USA!
Read more about visiting Portland: 24 fun things to do in Portland!
Hopefully, this list of the best places to visit in August in the USA has been helpful!
Which of these places to visit in August in the USA are you most excited to visit? Let us know!
