Snowbirds like to flee the frigid winters.
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But some of us are more concerned with beating the heat in summertime.
Around the world, cool-cationing has taken off as travelers look to skip out on summer’s hottest days. For Americans in the South and Midwest, that might also mean avoiding the stickiest and most humid weeks… and hordes of mosquitoes.
But where do chill-seekers go when temperatures start to soar?
Some head to the Pacific Northwest where the climate stays cool and temperate year-round. Others might look to the Rocky’s towering peaks and fresh air. A few more might simply head north of the border into Canada or slightly west into Alaska.
But if you don’t want to venture far off the beaten path, I’ve got suggestions. There are a handful of cities and towns around the US where temperatures barely rise into the 80s, even in July and August.
You might even need a coat when you visit.
San Francisco
If you’ve been to the Bay Area, you know that it defies logic.
For a major hub in the Golden State, it’s usually cloudy. And for all its hippy associations, it’s not warm enough for tie-dye bandana tops. Oh, and there’s always a gray wall of fog on the horizon.
But if you’re desperate to escape the desert heat or the mucky humidity of your hometown, then those characteristics are probably welcome. Best of all, San Fran doesn’t usually get warmer than 70 degrees… even in the height of summer.
Seattle
If San Francisco’s semi-gloomy climate is a turn-off, then you might write off Seattle, too.
But I have good news: Seattle’s summers tend to be sunny. They’re also a bit warmer than San Francisco, with temperatures rising into the low 80s.
Plus, you’ll get to join thousands of happy locals as they enjoy Puget Sound and Lake Washington, hike through the surrounding national parks, and wander through the city on the hunt for a perfect meal.
Kennebunkport (Maine)
If you read through my series on Martha’s Vineyard alternatives in Maine, then you might already have plans to beat the heat this summer.
As the northernmost state in the continental United States, Maine is home to dozens of beat-the-heat hotspots (pun intended). I highly suggest heading to Kennebunkport.
This coastal town has a serious charm factor thanks to its historic downtown area. It’s home to antique shops, art galleries, and dozens of highly-rated eateries. If you want a bit of classic Americana feel in your cool-cation, it’s a great choice.
Estes Park (Colorado)
This Rocky Mountain basecamp is a first stop for many heading into the mountains during summer.
But Estes Park has all the amenities you’ll need for a solid summer vacation. It’s home to campgrounds, RV parks, cabins, cottages, and high-quality hotels. (I’m sure you’ve heard of one of them.)
You can use Estes Park as your home base while you explore the mountains, swim in high-altitude lakes, and mountain bike across its off-road courses. For adventure lovers who are wary of high temperatures, Estes Park is a fantastic cool-cation option.
Durango (Colorado)
I have one other Colorado recommendation.
This outlier is located on the western side of the Rocky Mountain Range, tucked into a narrow valley amid the picturesque hills. Welcome to Durango. Similar to Estes Park, it’s a great jumping-off point for outdoor adventurists.
However, the town is also picturesque, combining the charm of Kennebunkport with the views and wonders of Estes Park.
Seriously—I’ve spent some time in Durango and I can’t believe it’s not mentioned on more travel guides. It’s even got a historical angle, as this was a lonely stop on the frontier trails of the 1800s.
