Endured one too many 100-degree days this summer? We sure have, and now we’re looking at these destinations--all of which have average highs in the 60s and 70s in July and August--for a spot of relief. Balmy weather may be what’s beckoning us, but there are bonuses: lovely settings and fun attractions all around.
Photo by Vanilla Sugar
Tour the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and the Soo Locks--the largest waterway traffic system on earth--in one of America’s oldest cities. Consider MonnieR’s endorsement: “Should my husband suggest a spur-of-the-moment return trip to Sault Ste. Marie, I’d say yes in a heartbeat.”
Photo by raymond longaray
San Francisco boasts the lowest summer temperatures of all major US cities, so there’s no better place to lie by the wharf and revel in bay views and breezes. Alternately, tackling the city’s many fun things to do is a task pleasantly free of summer sweat.
Photo by Shaken_Bake
Summer brings new seasonal pleasures to Aspen, like the opening of Independence Pass, “a challenging (but scenic) drive, even for Colorado natives.” Snow is gone and the air is cool, perfect weather for hiking area peaks like the Maroon Bells.
Photo by melissabowman
This “San Francisco of the Midwest,” so called for its hills and harbor, offers plenty of outside pursuits; try biking the Chester Bowl to see why g3 calls Duluth “an outdoor enthusiast's year-round mecca.” And don’t miss the engineering action at Canal Park’s famous Aerial Lift Bridge when a boat comes through.
Photo by EsslingerBrian
Much like the area’s attitude and attractions, Portland’s summer weather is generally “laid-back,” and the city embraces it with, Migin says, “a park, garden, or greenspace to accommodate everyone.”
Photo by ccavan
To make the most of Portland’s “mixture of city and coast,” stroll Commercial St. at the revitalized Old Port, hop on a ferry through Casco Bay, and tour the lighthouses of Portland and Cape Elizabeth.
Photo by thejazzcat
San Diego is surprisingly cool come summer, making the SoCal spot the perfect non-muggy beach destination. Take advantage of the tolerably warm sun by strolling the San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld.
Photo by onesundaymorning
From Pike Place Market to the Space Needle to the Bainbridge Island Ferry, Seattle’s attractions were meant for mild summer days best spent outdoors.
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