MONTHLY TRAVEL GUIDE TO THE U.S.
Do you have ideas on WHEN to travel, but aren't exactly sure WHERE to travel to?
The intention of this page is to provide great travel destinations across the United States for each month of the year.
In general, locations and times of the year have been chosen that offer comfortable average daily high temperatures (meaning generally in the 67-83° degree range). Although specific months have been called out, the months prior to and/or after the ones selected can be just as good, if not better, depending upon the weather that specific year.
There are a few destinations in the United States that have desirable temperatures for all 12 months of the year. Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico certainly fit that bill. Temperatures in Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands are almost always in the 70s and 80s, and most areas of Puerto Rico have high temperatures that float between 85-90° range all year long. It does rain a fair amount from July through January in the U.S. Virgin Islands though. The southern California coastline (e.g. San Diego, Santa Barbara, etc.) is also highly desirable throughout the year, although it's a bit chillier (60s and low 70s) in the cooler months. Southern Florida is also great for most months of the year. However, I find all of Florida to be generally too hot and humid from June through September.
IMPORTANT NOTE - The temperatures you see described below in RED represent the average high temperature for the month.
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Most of the United States is cold in January, but there are few spots in the Southwest and Florida that can be quite nice. Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of January:
✮ Big Bend National Park, TX (70°) - temps depend upon the elevation, but this park along the border of TX and MX is best in the cooler months
✮ Borrego Springs, CA (71°) - this desert town offers hiking, arts culture, and 4x4 driving, and is best in the cooler months of the year
✮ Death Valley National Park, CA (67°) - the best time to visit this park is November thru March; it's just too damn hot the rest of the year
✮ Everglades National Park, FL (76°) - the best time to visit this park is November thru March; it's the dry season and biting bugs are limited
✮ Florida Keys and Key West, FL (76°) - the Florida Keys are warm year-round, but it can be a bit too hot there from April thru October
✮ Miami, FL (74°) - this lively and youthful city has reliably warm and comfortable temperatures from November thru April
✮ Orlando and Disney World, FL (72°) - Disney is simply too hot in summer, and so I recommend visiting during other months of the year
✮ Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and Joshua Tree National Park, CA (71°) - the temps for most of CA's desert are great from November thru March
✮ Phoenix, Tucson, and southern AZ (68°) - the temps for most of AZ's desert are great from November thru March
✮ Winter sports vacations (e.g. CA, CO, ME, MT, NH, OR, UT, VT, WY, etc.) - the best snow of the year is typically mid-Jan thru mid-Mar
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| the Florida Keys |
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Death Valley National Park, CA |
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Disney World, FL |
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Similar to January, most of the best weather in the country during February is in the American Southwest or southern Florida. Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of February:
✮ Big Bend National Park, TX (75°) - temps depend upon the elevation, but this park along the border of TX and MX is best in the cooler months
✮ Borrego Springs, CA (73°) - this desert town offers great scenery, hiking, arts culture, and 4x4 driving in the cooler months of the year
✮ Death Valley National Park, CA (73°) - the best time to visit this park is November thru March; it's too damn hot the rest of the year
✮ Everglades National Park, FL (78°) - the best time to visit this park is November thru March; it's the dry season and the biting bugs are limited
✮ Florida Keys and Key West, FL (78°) - the Florida Keys are warm year-round, but it can be a bit too hot from April thru October
✮ Miami, FL (75°) - this lively and youthful city has reliably warm and comfortable temperatures from November thru April
✮ Orlando and Disney World, FL (75°) - Disney is simply too hot in summer, and so I recommend visiting during other months of the year
✮ Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and Joshua Tree National Park, CA (74°) - the temps for most of California's desert are great from Nov thru Mar
✮ Phoenix, Tucson, and southern AZ (72°) - the temps for most of AZ's desert are great from November thru March
✮ Tampa, FL (75°) - Tampa's best temperatures are from February-March and November-December
✮ Winter sports vacations (e.g. CA, CO, ME, MT, NH, OR, UT, VT, WY, etc.) - the best snow of the year is typically mid-Jan thru mid-Mar
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Big Bend National Park, TX |
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Everglades National Park, FL |
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skiing in the White Mountains of NH |
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More and more places start having desirable weather in March, including southern Texas, southern Nevada, and various areas in the Southeast. Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of March:
✮ Austin, San Antonio, and Hill Country, TX (73°) - southern Texas is best from mid-March to mid-May and also mid-October to mid-November
✮ Big Bend National Park, TX (86°) - temps depend upon the elevation, but this park along the border of TX and MX is best in the cooler months
✮ Death Valley National Park, CA (82°) - the best time to visit this park is November thru March; it's too damn hot the rest of the year
✮ Everglades National Park, FL (80°) - the best time to visit this park is November thru March; it's the dry season and the biting bugs are limited
✮ Florida Keys and Key West, FL (80°) - the Florida Keys are warm year-round, but it can be a bit too hot from April thru October
✮ Las Vegas, NV (72°) - Las Vegas is in the 100-110s temp range all summer long, and so I recommend visiting during Mar/Apr/May or Oct/Nov
✮ Miami, FL (76°) - this lively and youthful city has reliably warm and comfortable temperatures from November thru April
✮ New Orleans, LA (73°) - celebrate Mardi Gras!
✮ Orlando and Disney World, FL (79°) - Disney is simply too hot in summer, and so I recommend visiting during other months of the year
✮ Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and Joshua Tree National Park, CA (80°) - the temps for most of CA's desert are great from November thru March
✮ Phoenix, Tucson, and southern AZ (77°) - the temps for most of AZ's desert are great from November thru March
✮ St. Augustine, FL (74°) - like most of Florida, March and April is a great time to visit St. Augustine
✮ Tampa, FL (79°) - Tampa's best temperatures are from February-March and also November-December
✮ White Sands National Park, NM (71°) - see beautiful white gypsum sand dunes in pleasant spring weather
✮ Winter sports vacations (e.g. CA, CO, ME, MT, NH, OR, UT, VT, WY, etc.) - the best snow of the year is typically mid-Jan thru mid-Mar
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Las Vegas, NV |
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New Orleans, LA |
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Joshua Tree National Park, CA |
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April marks the start of some of the best months to visit the American Southwest. The snow and ice is generally gone, and the summer heat hasn't arrived yet. Arizona and southern Utah are particularly desirable.
April also typically marks the end of pleasant weather in Orlando and at Disney World. Southern and central Florida starts becoming too hot in May, although some days in May will be nice and Florida's numerous water parks will be open. Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of April:
✮ Austin, San Antonio, and Hill Country, TX (80°) - southern Texas is best from mid-March to mid-May and also mid-October to mid-November
✮ Charleston, SC (73°) - it is hot and humid in Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA during summer, so visit in April/May or Sept/Oct instead
✮ Florida's beaches (75-83°) - beaches across nearly all of Florida are great in April and May (plus there's near-zero risk of hurricanes)
✮ Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument, UT (68-72°) - like most of southern Utah, this park is best in the spring and fall months
✮ Havasupai Reservation, AZ (79°) - Apr-May and Sept-Oct are the best times to hike to Havasupai; it's a bit hot, but the swimming's great
✮ Las Vegas, NV (81°) - Las Vegas is in the 100-110s all summer long, and so I recommend visiting during Mar/Apr/May or Oct/Nov
✮ Miami, FL (79°) - this lively and youthful city has reliably warm and comfortable temperatures from November thru April
✮ Moab and Arches National Park, UT (73°) - like most of southern Utah, the Moab area is best in the spring and fall seasons
✮ Nashville, TN (72°) - the spring and fall months are the optimal times to visit this country and rock-n-roll music destination
✮ New Orleans, LA (79°) - the Mardi Gras celebration is over, but the summer heat and humidity hasn't arrived yet
✮ Orange Beach, AL (76°) - temperatures at this popular beach destination are best in April/May and also Sept/Oct
✮ Orlando and Disney World, FL (83°) - Disney is simply too hot in summer, and so I recommend visiting during other months of the year
✮ Savannah, GA (78°) - it is hot and humid in Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA during summer, so visit in April/May or Sept/Oct instead
✮ Sedona, AZ (74°) - winter is finally over, and Sedona is thawing out nicely in April
✮ Springdale and Zion National Park, UT (74°) - like most of southern Utah, the Springdale and Zion area is best in the spring and fall
✮ St. Augustine, FL (79°) - like most of Florida, March and April is a great time to visit St. Augustine
✮ Washington, D.C. (68°) - the spring and fall seasons are a great time to visit all of Washington D.C.'s monuments, museums, and memorials
✮ White Sands National Park, NM (80°) - see beautiful white gypsum sand dunes in pleasant spring weather
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Sedona, AZ |
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Angel's Landing, Zion National Park, UT |
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Havasupai, AZ |
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May typically marks the end of pleasant weather in the American Southwest. It simply gets too hot after May in most areas across AZ, southern UT, and the CA desert. Meanwhile, many other areas of the United States become popular destinations in May. Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of May:
✮ Amish Country and Hershey, PA (73°) - enjoy all the tourist attractions of Amish Country and Hershey before the heat of summer
✮ Charleston, SC (79°) - it is hot and humid in Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA during summer, so visit in April/May or Sept/Oct instead
✮ Florida's beaches (83-87°) - beaches across nearly all of Florida are great in April and May (plus there's near-zero risk of hurricanes)
✮ Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim), AZ (68°) - May is usually the last chance before fall to hike in the canyon without scorching heat
✮ Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, UT (75-80°) - like most of southern Utah, this park is best in the spring and fall months
✮ Great Smoky Mountains region, TN (77°) - by May, most of the roads, trails, and attractions throughout the Smoky Mountains are open
✮ Havasupai Reservation, AZ (89°) - Apr/May and Sept/Oct are the best times to hike to Havasupai; it's a bit hot, but the swimming's great
✮ Hilton Head Island, SC (82°) - May/June and Sept/Oct are the best times to visit this popular beach, biking, and golfing destination
✮ Las Vegas, NV (90°) - Las Vegas is in the 100-110s all summer long, and so I recommend visiting during April, May, or October
✮ Los Angeles (74°) - Los Angeles is warm year-round, but temperatures are typically in the 70s during May/June and October/November
✮ Moab and Arches National Park, UT (83°) - like most of southern Utah, the Moab area is best in the spring and fall seasons
✮ Napa Valley, CA (78°) - May and October are my favorite months for visiting Napa Valley; the summer is typically too hot for my taste
✮ Nashville, TN (79°) - the spring and fall months are the optimal times to visit this country and rock-n-roll music destination
✮ New York City, NY (72°) - it's usually too damn hot and humid in NYC in summer, so visit in the spring and fall instead
✮ North Carolina's mountains (75°) - enjoy the great outdoors before the summer heat arrives
✮ Orange Beach, AL (83°) - temperatures at this popular beach destination are best in April/May and Sept/Oct
✮ Red River Gorge, KY (77°) - go hunting for arches and natural bridges in warm and comfortable spring or fall weather
✮ Santa Fe, NM (73°) - May thru September is a great time to visit one of America's greatest mid-sized cities
✮ Sedona, AZ (83°) - explore Sedona in the spring before it gets too hot in the summer
✮ Springdale and Zion National Park, UT (84°) - like most of southern Utah, the Springdale and Zion area is best in the spring and fall
✮ Washington, D.C. (76°) - the spring and fall seasons are a great time to visit all of Washington D.C.'s monuments, museums, and memorials
✮ Williamsburg, VA (78°) - temperatures in this historic region are more pleasant in spring and fall than in summer
✮ Yosemite National Park (Yosemite Valley), CA (72°) - May & June are some of the best months for witnessing Yosemite's towering waterfalls
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Grand Canyon National Park, AZ |
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Napa Valley, CA |
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Red River Gorge, KY |
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June is a great month to travel to many different places in the United States. The snow and ice from winter has generally melted (except for high elevation places and roads), and the summer crowds often haven't arrived yet. You'll want to avoid northern New England (NH, VT, ME) during June as biting insects are often unbearable (most hikers I know refuse to hike at all during June). Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of June:
✮ Badlands National Park, SD (78°) - the Badlands and Black Hills of SD are busiest in summer, but temps are better in late spring/early fall
✮ Bend, OR (73°) - the summer months are perfect for a trip to Bend and central Oregon (although forest fire smoke is a possibility)
✮ Black Hills, SD (72-78°) - the Badlands and Black Hills of SD are busiest in summer, but temps are better in late spring/early fall
✮ Boston, MA (76°) - June and September are the best months to visit Boston; the summer can be too hot and humid
✮ Boulder, CO (82°) - late spring and early fall are the best times to visit Boulder; the summer can be too hot
✮ Branson, MO (78°) - the summer attractions are generally open, and it's often cooler in June versus July/August
✮ Bryce Canyon National Park, UT (74°) - June is the best month for this park; the snow is gone and thunderstorms are less frequent
✮ Cape May, NJ (80°) - June & September offer the best temperatures for this quaint seaside city, dubbed the 'Nation's Oldest Seashore Resort'
✮ Chicago, IL (77°) - late spring through early fall is the best time to visit my 2nd favorite major city in the U.S. (#1 = NYC)
✮ Delaware's beaches (77°) - Delaware's underrated beaches (e.g. Rehoboth, Bethany, Lewes, etc.) are best from June thru September
✮ Door County, WI (73°) - the 'Cape Cod of the Midwest' is warm and all attractions and theaters are open
✮ Durango and southwestern CO (83°) - June is a top month for rafting on the Animas River, taking a scenic train ride, and visiting Mesa Verde
✮ Finger Lakes region, NY (78°) - June and September are the best weather months for this region famous for wineries and waterfalls
✮ Hilton Head Island, SC (87°) - May/June and Sept/Oct are the best times to visit this popular beach, biking, and golfing destination
✮ Los Angeles (79°) - Los Angeles is warm year-round, but temperatures are typically in the 70s during May/June and October/November
✮ Mackinac Island, MI (71°) - this beloved island has high temperatures that usually float in the low to mid-70s from June thru August
✮ New Jersey's southern beaches (80°) - the beaches of southern New Jersey are warm and lively from June thru September
✮ Newport, RI (73°) - June thru September is a great time to visit the 'Sailing Capital of the World' and to stroll the famous Cliff Walk
✮ Niagara Falls, NY and Canada (76°) - Niagara Falls flows year-round, but most activities and attractions in the area are open seasonally
✮ Outer Banks, NC (79°) - the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks are best from June thru September
✮ Santa Barbara, CA (72°) - enjoy beautiful beaches and Spanish-style architecture in Santa Barbara from mid-spring through mid-fall
✮ Santa Fe, NM (83°) - May thru early October is a great time to visit one of America's greatest mid-sized cities
✮ Wisconsin Dells, WI (79°) - the numerous water parks and other tourist attractions are now open for the summer season
✮ Yosemite National Park (Yosemite Valley), CA (82°) - May & June are some of the best months for witnessing Yosemite's towering waterfalls
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Badlands National Park, SD |
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Yosemite National Park, CA |
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Mesa Verde National Park, CO |
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July and August can be unbearable hot and humid in many places across the country, but there are places where temperatures are most tolerable. Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of July:
✮ Adirondacks region, NY (77°) - temperatures depend on your elevation, but July and August are the busy times for this region
✮ Alaska (66-73°) - the temperature really depends on were you are in Alaska, but July and August are the best weather months of the year
✮ Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, ME (75°) - July thru mid-October is the prime season for this coastal area; avoid June's biting bugs
✮ Bend, OR (83°) - the summer months are perfect for a trip to Bend and central Oregon (although forest fire smoke is a possibility)
✮ Black Hills, SD (80-84°) - it can get a little hot in the Black Hills in summer, but that's when all of its top attractions are open
✮ Burlington and Stowe, VT (78-82°) - these great northern Vermont destinations are heavily visited from July thru mid-October
✮ Cape Cod, MA (79°) - Cape Cod is expensive and crowded in summer, but that's when everything is open
✮ Chicago, IL (82°) - late spring through early fall is the best time to visit my 2nd favorite major city in the U.S. (#1 = NYC)
✮ Coeur d'Alene, ID (84°) - enjoy natural beauty and a variety of outdoor recreation all summer long at this renowned Idaho destination
✮ Crater Lake National Park, OR (70°) - July and August are the top months for this park; the snow is mostly gone and all roads are usually open
✮ Delaware's beaches (81°) - Delaware's underrated beaches (e.g. Rehoboth, Bethany, Lewes, etc.) are best enjoyed from June thru September
✮ Door County, WI (79°) - the 'Cape Cod of the Midwest' has generally favorable temperatures all summer long
✮ Glacier National Park, MT (71°) - July and August are the top months for this park; the snow is mostly gone and all roads are usually open
✮ Jackson and Grand Teton National Park, WY (78°) - July and August are the best warm-weather months to explore the Grand Tetons
✮ Lake George, NY (83°) - it's a bit hot in July & August, but all attractions are open in summer at this family-friendly destination
✮ Lake Tahoe, CA (80°) - enjoy natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities all summer long
✮ Mackinac Island, MI (76°) - this beloved island offers high temperatures that usually float in the low to mid-70s from June thru August
✮ Martha's Vineyard, MA (79°) - July & August the most popular months on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket islands (ferry required for both)
✮ Michigan's Lake Michigan beaches (74-78°) - Michigan's underrated beaches are typically at their best throughout July & August
✮ Michigan's Upper Peninsula (71°) - it stays relatively cool this far north, but the U.P (upper peninsula) has its best temps in July & August
✮ Mount Rainier National Park (Paradise area), WA (62°) - for a great snow/ice-free experience, visit this area of the park from July to mid-Sept
✮ Nantucket, MA (76°) - July & August the most popular months on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket islands (ferry required for both)
✮ New Jersey's southern beaches (85°) - the beaches of southern New Jersey are warm and lively from June thru September
✮ Newport, RI (78°) - June thru September is a great time to visit the 'Sailing Capital of the World' and to stroll the famous Cliff Walk
✮ Niagara Falls, NY and Canada (81°) - Niagara Falls flows year-round, but most activities and attractions in the area are open seasonally
✮ Olympic National Park, WA (68°) - the Olympic Peninsula is notorious chilly, but the best temperatures are from mid-June thru mid-Sept
✮ Oregon's coastline (64-70°) - the water is still chilly, but the air temps along Oregon's coastline is as good as it gets in July and August
✮ Outer Banks, NC (83°) - the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks are best from June thru September
✮ Portland and southern Maine's beaches (80°) - many feel the water is still too cold, but July & August is a great time to explore Maine's coast
✮ Redwood National and State Parks, CA (67°) - July thru September offers the warmest temperatures to see the massive redwood trees
✮ Rocky Mountain National Park, CO (69°) - at this high of an elevation, it never gets hot; visit from July thru mid-September for the best temps
✮ San Diego, CA (76°) - San Diego is great year-round, but air and water temperatures are best from July thru October
✮ Santa Barbara, CA (76°) - enjoy beautiful beaches and Spanish-style architecture from mid-spring through mid-fall
✮ Santa Fe, NM (86°) - May thru early October is a great time to visit one of America's greatest mid-sized cities
✮ Seattle, WA (72°) - July thru September is the best (and least rainy) time to visit this landmark-filled city
✮ White Mountains region, NH (77-82°) - stay in Jackson, Lincoln, or North Conway and enjoy many outdoor activities and tourist attractions
✮ Wisconsin Dells, WI (82°) - it's a bit hot here in summer, but that's when all the tourist attractions and water parks are generally open
✮ Yellowstone National Park, WY (72°) - all of the park roads are usually open for all of July and August, and snowstorms are rare
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Acadia National Park, ME |
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Chicago, IL |
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Ecola State Park, OR |
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July and August can be unbearable hot and humid in many places across the country, but there are places where temperatures are most tolerable.
Even the snowiest locations are generally free of snow and ice by August, and so it's a great time to head to the highest elevation areas in the U.S. Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of August:
✮ Adirondacks region, NY (75°) - temperatures depend on your elevation, but July and August are the primary tourist season for this region
✮ Alaska (60-68°) - the temperature really depends on were you are in Alaska, but July and August are the best weather months of the year
✮ Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, ME (74°) - July thru mid-October is the prime season for this area; avoid June due to biting bugs
✮ Bend, OR (82°) - the summer months are perfect for a trip to Bend and central Oregon (although forest fire smoke is a possibility)
✮ Black Hills, SD (80-84°) - it can get a little hot in the Black Hills in summer, but that's when all of its top attractions are open
✮ Burlington and Stowe, VT (75-80°) - these great northern Vermont destinations are heavily visited from July thru mid-October
✮ Cape Cod, MA (78°) - Cape Cod is expensive and crowded in summer, but that's when everything is open
✮ Chicago, IL (81°) - late spring through early fall is the best time to visit my 2nd favorite major city in the U.S. (#1 = NYC)
✮ Coeur d'Alene, ID (84°) - enjoy natural beauty and a variety of outdoor recreation all summer long at this renowned Idaho destination
✮ Crater Lake National Park, OR (70°) - July and August are the top months for this park; the snow is mostly gone and all roads are usually open
✮ Delaware's beaches (80°) - Delaware's underrated beaches (e.g. Rehoboth, Bethany, Lewes, etc.) are best from June thru September
✮ Door County, WI (77°) - the 'Cape Cod of the Midwest' has generally favorable temperatures all summer long
✮ Glacier National Park, MT (70°) - July and August are the top months for this park; the snow is mostly gone and all roads are usually open
✮ Jackson and Grand Teton National Park, WY (75°) - July and August are the best warm-weather months to explore the Grand Tetons
✮ Lake George, NY (81°) - it's a bit hot in July & August, but all attractions are open in summer at this family-friendly destination
✮ Lake Tahoe, CA (79°) - enjoy natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities all summer long
✮ Mackinac Island, MI (74°) - this beloved island offers high temperatures that usually float in the low to mid-70s from June thru August
✮ Martha's Vineyard, MA (79°) - July & August the most popular months on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket islands (ferry required for both)
✮ Michigan's Lake Michigan beaches (72-78°) - Michigan's underrated beaches are typically at their best throughout July & August
✮ Michigan's Upper Peninsula (71°) - it stays relatively cool this far north, but the U.P (upper peninsula) has its highest temps in July & August
✮ Mount Rainier National Park (Paradise area), WA (63°) - for a great snow/ice-free experience, visit this area of the park from July to mid-Sept
✮ Nantucket, MA (76°) - July & August the most popular months on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket islands (ferry required for both)
✮ New Jersey's southern beaches (84°) - the beaches of southern New Jersey are warm and lively from June thru September
✮ Newport, RI (78°) - June thru September is a great time to visit the 'Sailing Capital of the World' and to stroll the famous Cliff Walk
✮ Niagara Falls, NY and Canada (79°) - Niagara Falls flows year-round, but most activities and attractions in the area are open seasonally
✮ Olympic National Park, WA (69°) - the Olympic Peninsula is notorious chilly, but the best temperatures are from mid-June thru mid-Sept
✮ Oregon's coastline (65-70°) - the water is still chilly, but the air temps along Oregon's coastline is as good as it gets in July and August
✮ Outer Banks, NC (82°) - the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks are best from June thru September
✮ Portland and southern Maine's beaches (78°) - many feel the water is still too cold, but July & August is a great time to explore Maine's coast
✮ Redwood National and State Parks, CA (68°) - July through September offer the warmest temperatures to see these massive redwood trees
✮ Rocky Mountain National Park, CO (67°) - at this high of an elevation, it never gets hot; visit from July thru mid-September for the best temps
✮ San Diego, CA (78°) - San Diego is great year-round, but air and water temperatures are best from July thru October
✮ San Francisco, CA (69°) - temps are best in San Francisco from August thru October (generally high 60s/low 70s)
✮ Santa Barbara, CA (77°) - enjoy beautiful beaches and Spanish-style architecture in Santa Barbara from mid-spring through mid-fall
✮ Santa Fe, NM (83°) - May thru early October is a great time to visit one of America's greatest mid-sized cities
✮ Seattle, WA (72°) - July thru September is the best (and least rainy) time to visit this landmark-filled city
✮ White Mountains region, NH (75-80°) - stay in Jackson, Lincoln, or North Conway and enjoy many outdoor activities and tourist attractions
✮ Wisconsin Dells, WI (80°) - it's a bit hot here in summer, but that's when all the tourist attractions and water parks are generally open
✮ Yellowstone National Park, WY (70°) - all of the park roads are usually open for all of July and August, and snowstorms are rare
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Mount Rushmore National Memorial, SD |
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Cape Cod, MA |
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Redwood National Park, CA |
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September is my favorite travel month in the United States. Just about everywhere in the country is desirable during this month. Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of September:
✮ Acadia National Park, ME (68°) - July thru mid-October is the prime season for this area; avoid June due to biting bugs
✮ Adirondacks region, NY (67°) - the temperatures are a little cooler than summer, but the crowds have died down and the hiking is great
✮ Amish Country and Hershey, PA (77°) - enjoy all the tourist attractions of Amish Country and Hershey after the heat of summer is gone
✮ Badlands National Park, SD (76°) - the Badlands and Black Hills of SD are busiest in summer, but temps are better in late spring/early fall
✮ Bend, OR (75°) - the summer months are perfect for a trip to Bend and central Oregon (although forest fire smoke is a possibility)
✮ Black Hills, SD (70-75°) - the Badlands and Black Hills of SD are busiest in summer, but temps are better in late spring/early fall
✮ Boston, MA (73°) - June and September are the best months to visit Boston; the summer can be too hot and humid
✮ Boulder, CO (79°) - late spring and early fall are the best times to visit Boulder; the summer can be too hot
✮ Branson, MO (83°) - temperatures are a bit more reasonable in September, and most attractions are still open
✮ Burlington and Stowe, VT (66-71°) - these great northern Vermont destinations are heavily visited from July thru mid-October
✮ Cape Cod, MA (72°) - the summer crowds are mostly gone, but there are usually a few great warm/hot days for the beach left
✮ Cape May, NJ (78°) - June & September offer the best temperatures for this quaint seaside city, dubbed the 'Nation's Oldest Seashore Resort'
✮ Charleston, SC (83°) - it is hot and humid in Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA during summer, so visit in April/May or Sept/Oct instead
✮ Chicago, IL (74°) - late spring through early fall is the best time to visit my 2nd favorite major city in the U.S. (#1 = NYC)
✮ Coeur d'Alene, ID (74°) - September is a great month to enjoy the lake and the epic bicycling trails in the area
✮ Delaware's beaches (76°) - Delaware's underrated beaches (e.g. Rehoboth, Bethany, Lewes, etc.) are best from June thru September
✮ Durango and southwestern CO (77°) - enjoy great outdoor activity temperatures plus beautiful fall foliage for the second half of the month
✮ Finger Lakes region, NY (74°) - June and September are the best weather months for this wine and waterfalls region
✮ Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim), AZ (77°) - the summer crowds have reduced, and temps within the canyon are starting to cool off
✮ Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, UT (81°) - like most of southern Utah, this park is best in the spring and fall months
✮ Great Smoky Mountains region, TN (79°) - the 'Disneyland of the great outdoors' returns to more reasonable temperatures in Sept/Oct
✮ Havasupai Reservation, AZ (96°) - Apr/May and Sept/Oct are the best times to hike to Havasupai; it's a bit hot, but the swimming's great
✮ Hilton Head Island, SC (84°) - May/June and Sept/Oct are the best times to visit this popular beach, biking, and golfing destination
✮ Lake Tahoe, CA (74°) - enjoy great fall hiking and other outdoor activities around Lake Tahoe
✮ Martha's Vineyard, MA (72°) - the summer crowds are gone, but most attractions and restaurants are still operating for the season
✮ Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA (71°) - temps for these seaside cities are in the 60s/low 70s year-round, but Sept/Oct is the warmest
✮ Nashville, TN (83°) - the spring and fall months are the optimal times to visit this country and rock-n-roll music destination
✮ New Jersey's southern beaches (78°) - the beaches of southern New Jersey are warm and lively from June thru September
✮ New York City, NY (76°) - the heat and humidity of summer are over, and so now's the time to enjoy exploring all over the city
✮ Newport, RI (72°) - June thru September is a great time to visit the 'Sailing Capital of the World' and to stroll the famous Cliff Walk
✮ Niagara Falls, NY and Canada (70°) - Niagara Falls flows year-round, but most activities and attractions in the area are open seasonally
✮ North Carolina's mountains (78°) - stay in Asheville or Boone and enjoy great fall weather in the North Carolina mountains
✮ Orange Beach, AL (87°) - temperatures at this popular beach destination are best in April/May and Sept/Oct
✮ Outer Banks, NC (72°) - the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks are best from June thru September
✮ Red River Gorge, KY (77°) - go hunting for arches and natural bridges in warm and comfortable spring or fall weather
✮ Redwood National and State Parks, CA (69°) - July through September offer the warmest temperatures to see these massive redwood trees
✮ San Diego, CA (77°) - San Diego is great year-round, but air and water temperatures are best from July thru October
✮ San Francisco, CA (71°) - temps are best in San Francisco from August thru October (generally high 60s/low 70s)
✮ Santa Barbara, CA (74°) - enjoy beautiful beaches and Spanish-style architecture in Santa Barbara from mid-spring through mid-fall
✮ Santa Fe, NM (77°) - May thru September is a great time to visit one of America's greatest mid-sized cities
✮ Seattle, WA (67°) - July thru September is the best (and least rainy) time to visit this city
✮ Washington, D.C. (80°) - the spring and fall seasons are a great time to visit all of Washington D.C.'s monuments, museums, and memorials
✮ White Mountains region, NH (68-72°) - stay in Jackson, Lincoln, or North Conway and enjoy many outdoor activities and tourist attractions
✮ Williamsburg, VA (81°) - temperatures in this historic region are more pleasant in spring and fall than in summer
✮ Yosemite National Park (Yosemite Valley), CA (83°) - the waterfalls may or may not be flowing well, but Sept & Oct are great for hiking
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Cape May, NJ |
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White Mountains, NH |
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Acorn Street in Boston, MA |
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October is prime fall foliage time across many of the northern states. Temperatures in the desert are cooling off, and it's still warm in many places as well. Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of October:
✮ Albuquerque and Santa Fe, NM (66-74°) - visit this area in early October for the epic Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
✮ Austin, San Antonio, and Hill Country, TX (82°) - southern Texas is best from mid-March to mid-May and also mid-October to mid-November
✮ Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, ME (58°) - July thru mid-October is the prime season for this area; avoid June due to biting bugs
✮ Burlington and Stowe, VT (54-58°) - offers great fall foliage, which usually peaks somewhere between 10/5 and 10/15 each year
✮ Charleston, SC (77°) - it is hot and humid in Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA during summer, so visit in April/May or Sept/Oct instead
✮ Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, UT (69°) - like most of southern Utah, this park is best in the spring and fall months
✮ Great Smoky Mountains region, TN (70°) - the 'Disneyland of the great outdoors' returns to more reasonable temperatures in Sept & Oct
✮ Havasupai Reservation, AZ (82°) - Apr/May and Sept/Oct are the best times to hike to Havasupai; it's a bit hot, but the swimming's great
✮ Hilton Head Island, SC (77°) - May/June and Sept/Oct are the best times to visit this popular beach, biking, and golfing destination
✮ Las Vegas, NV (83°) - Las Vegas is in the 100-110s all summer long, and so I recommend visiting during Mar/Apr/May, or Oct/Nov
✮ Los Angeles (79°) - Los Angeles is warm year-round, but temperatures are typically in the 70s during May/Jun and Oct/Nov
✮ Moab and Arches National Park, UT (75°) - like most of southern Utah, the Moab area is best in the spring and fall seasons
✮ Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA (71°) - temps for these seaside cities are in the 60s/low 70s year-round, but Sept/Oct is the warmest
✮ Napa Valley, CA (78°) - May and October are some of the best months for visiting Napa Valley; the summer is often too hot
✮ Nashville, TN (73°) - the spring and fall months are the optimal times to visit this country and rock-n-roll music destination
✮ New Orleans, LA (81°) - reasonable temperatures have returned to New Orleans by October
✮ North Carolina's mountains (68°) - stay in Asheville or Boone and enjoy great fall weather in the North Carolina mountains
✮ Orange Beach, AL (80°) - temperatures at this popular beach destination are best in April/May and Sept/Oct
✮ Red River Gorge, KY (77°) - go hunting for arches and natural bridges in warm (but comfortable) spring or fall weather
✮ Salem, MA (62°) - Halloween is celebrated for practically the entire month of October in Salem
✮ San Diego, CA (75°) - San Diego is great year-round, but air and water temperatures are best from July thru October
✮ San Francisco, CA (70°) - temps are best in San Francisco from August thru October (generally high 60s/low 70s)
✮ Savannah, GA (79°) - it is hot and humid in Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA during summer, so visit from April/May or Sept/Oct instead
✮ Sedona, AZ (78°) - enjoy warm fall temperatures with beautiful red-rock scenery
✮ Springdale and Zion National Park, UT (78°) - October is my favorite month for this area; temps are good and the risk of flash floods is low
✮ St. Augustine, FL (81°) - like most of Florida, October and November is a great time to visit St. Augustine
✮ Washington, D.C. (69°) - the spring and fall seasons are a great time to visit all of Washington D.C.'s monuments, museums, and memorials
✮ White Mountains region, NH (55-60°) - enjoy great fall foliage, which usually peaks somewhere between 10/5 and 10/15 each year
✮ White Sands National Park, NM (79°) - see beautiful white gypsum sand dunes in pleasant fall weather
✮ Williamsburg, VA (71°) - some of its attractions are closed (e.g. Water Country USA), but October is a great time to visit Williamsburg
✮ Yosemite National Park (Yosemite Valley), CA (72°) - the waterfalls may or may not be flowing well, but Sept/Oct are great for hiking
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Lower Calf Creek Falls, UT |
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San Francisco, CA |
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Corona Arch, UT |
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The weather is chilly or downright cold in many places in the U.S. in November. However, some southern states remain warm. Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of November:
✮ Austin, San Antonio, and Hill Country, TX (71°) - its starting to get a little chilly in south Texas in November, but it's still quite nice
✮ Big Bend National Park, TX (78°) - temps depend upon the elevation, but this park along the border of TX and MX is best in the cooler months
✮ Death Valley National Park, CA (77°) - the best time to visit this park is November thru March; it's too damn hot the rest of the year
✮ Everglades National Park, FL (82°) - the best time to visit this park is November thru March; it's the dry season and the biting bugs are limited
✮ Florida Keys and Key West, FL (81°) - the Florida Keys are warm year-round, but it can be a bit too hot from April thru October
✮ Florida's beaches (72-81°) - beaches across nearly all of Florida are great in November
✮ Los Angeles (74°) - Los Angeles is warm year-round, but temperatures are typically in the 70s during May/June and October/November
✮ Miami, FL (79°) - this lively and youthful city has reliably warm and comfortable temperatures from November thru April
✮ New Orleans, LA (72°) - November marks the return of reasonable temperatures to New Orleans
✮ New York City, NY (55°) - Thanksgiving week offers a huge parade and most Xmas decorations are already out; less crowded vs. December
✮ Orlando and Disney World, FL (78°) - Disney is simply too hot in summer, and so I recommend visiting during other months of the year
✮ Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and Joshua Tree National Park, CA (79°) - the temps for most of CA's desert are great from November thru March
✮ Phoenix, Tucson and Southern AZ (77°) - the temps for most of AZ's desert are great from November thru March
✮ St. Augustine, FL (75°) - like most of Florida, October and November is a great time to visit St. Augustine
✮ Tampa, FL (79°) - Tampa's best temperatures are in February/March and also November/December
✮ White Sands National Park, NM (66°) - see beautiful white gypsum sand dunes in pleasant fall weather
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Siesta Key Beach, FL |
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St. Augustine Alligator Farm, FL |
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Disney World, FL |
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There aren't many places that remain warm in December in the United States, but there are a few. There are also some great holiday towns and cities to explore as well (although they aren't warm). The king of all holiday destinations is New York City, which boasts its massive Rockefeller Tree, performances by the Rockettes at Radio City, and holiday decorations all over the city.
Here are some highly recommend travel destinations in the United States for the month of December:
✮ Big Bend National Park, TX (74°) - temps depend upon the elevation, but this park along the border of TX and MX is best in the cooler months
✮ Branson, MO (49°) - this tourist town in the Ozarks region of southwestern Missouri transforms into a charming Christmas destination
✮ Death Valley National Park, CA (65°) - the best time to visit this park is November thru March; it's too damn hot the rest of the year
✮ Everglades National Park, FL (78°) - the best time to visit this park is November thru March; it's the dry season and biting bugs are limited
✮ Florida Keys and Key West, FL (78°) - the Florida Keys are warm year-round, but is generally considered best from November thru March
✮ Great Smoky Mountains region, TN (52°) - it's a bit chilly here in December, but the holiday decorations and festivities are impressive
✮ Miami, FL (76°) - this lively and youthful city has reliably warm and comfortable temperatures from November thru April
✮ New York City, NY (44°) - NYC is full of Christmas decorations and holiday spirit (warning: crowds can be very thick)
✮ Orlando and Disney World, FL (74°) - Disney is simply too hot in summer, and so I recommend visiting during other months of the year
✮ Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and Joshua Tree National Park, CA (70°) - the temps for most of CA's desert are great from November thru March
✮ Phoenix, Tucson and Southern AZ (68°) - the temps for most of AZ's desert are great from November thru March
✮ Tampa, FL (75°) - northern Florida starts getting a bit chilly in December, but Tampa (and south of Tampa) is still pretty nice
As I mention above, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are also great choices for any month of the year. Temperatures remain warm throughout the entire year.
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| Saguaro National Park, AZ |
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Branson, MO |
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Central Park in New York City, NY |
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