From starry skies in Arizona to mountain trails in North Carolina, these last-minute USA escapes offer something for every kind of traveller this summer. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, family fun, or a more restorative escape, each destination combines convenience with a distinctly local feel, perfect for spontaneous summer travel.
For the Family: Hershey, Pennsylvania
Just 90 minutes from Philadelphia lies Hershey, ‘America’s sweetest town’ and a fantastic one in our list of US destinations. You’re never too old to enjoy thrilling coasters at Hersheypark or discover the secret to those famous Hershey Kisses at Chocolate World, it’s a family holiday where the theme is both fun and flavor. The beautiful Hershey Gardens encompass 23 acres of manicured gardens, flutter into the mesmerizing Butterfly Atrium which is home to dozens of local and foreign species. The Hotel Hershey offers elegant, family-friendly amenities with a delightful chocolate twist and plenty of activities including disc golf and falconry.
Nearest airport: Philadelphia, PA
Bohemian Wellness: Ojai, California
Ojai is a spiritual-meets-luxury haven with boho charm and impressive wellness credentials, the answer to the increasingly popular trend of ‘Spiritual Tourism’ – where travellers seek more than a spa experience. Start the day with sunrise yoga beneath the Topatopa Mountains, then refuel with organic eats from one of the local farmers’ markets. Book a sound bath, join a guided hike in Los Padres National Forest, or unwind at a Spa Ojai with a desert-inspired treatment. Stay at the eco-luxe Ojai Valley Inn or a stylish boutique retreat. It’s mind-body bliss wrapped in golden-hour light and California calm.
Nearest airport: Los Angeles, CA
Adventure Seeker: Burlington, Vermont
Fly into Boston and drive north to Burlington, a lakeside city where mountain air and creative energy meet. Spend mornings sailing on Lake Champlain, afternoons hiking Mt. Philo or biking the scenic Island Line Trail, and evenings exploring the historic city’s buzzing breweries and farm-to-table food scene. Throughout the summer, Burlington hosts a number of art and music events, particularly jazz, so make sure not to miss these off your itinerary. Take a day trip to the impossibly beautiful Stowe, usually flocked to in winter for skiing but still dazzling in the summer, or drive Vermont’s famously scenic byways. Hotel Vermont makes a perfect base, blending understated luxury with local charm.
Nearest airport: Boston, MA
Summer Stargazing: Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff is where crisp mountain air meets some of the clearest night skies in the U.S. Known as the world’s first International Dark Sky City, it’s home to Lowell Observatory and offers front-row seats to meteor showers and the Milky Way. By day, hike in the San Francisco Peaks or venture out to the Grand Canyon to tick off one of life’s bucket list travel adventures, you will not be disappointed. Little America Hotel, nestled in ponderosa pines, offers space and serenity, one of several comfortable stays in the relaxed, outdoorsy town.
Nearest airport: Phoenix, AZ
For Nature Lovers: Asheville, North Carolina
Photo by Scott Longerbeam on Unsplash
A scenic 3.5-hour drive from Charlotte Douglas airport, Asheville is a vibrant town surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and known for its grassroots art community. It sits near the foot of the great Appalachian Trail – one of the most famous trails in the USA which runs from Maine to Georgia, and offers options for day hikes to more experienced trails. Or if you’re looking to chase waterfalls, only ten minutes from the centre of town is the picturesquePisgah National Forest. If you’re looking to just take in the sights, don’t miss out on the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, a memorable drive that runs along the ridge of West Virginia with captivating views. Back in town, enjoy galleries, music venues and a dynamic local food scene. The Foundry Hotel, a former steel factory turned boutique retreat, combines industrial style with southern warmth and sits among a variety of inviting hotels, cabins and characterful B&Bs in the city.
Nearest Airport: Charlotte, NC
So, when you’re wanting to make an impulsive trip this year, look no further! The US has something for everyone no matter what you’re looking for. Which of our US destinations has caught your eye? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you!
