Summer is almost here. Graduates, families and friends will likely want to go on a fun-filled summer vacation. Here are some of the trendiest spots in the U.S. for 2024, whether by car, plane, boat or bike.
Road Trippin’. If a long road trip is what summer will bring you, be sure to have your car inspected, tires properly inflated, and tanks filled. Have a first aid kit packed and readily available, along with an ice chest with plenty of water. Be sure to have your ResidentShield renter’s insurance updated in case of theft and other accidents that might occur while you are traveling. If you are bringing along Snoopy, be sure they are correctly strapped and seated and ensure they are drinking water at rest stops. Remember, it’s about the journey, not the destination.
Experience the wonders of the West Coast! The West Coast offers sunshine, redwood forests, colorful seatowns and magnificent rocky cliffs. Start on Route 101 from San Diego and soak in Laguna Beach. From there, head over to tranquil Santa Barbara and get on Highway 1 through the rugged coast of Big Sur. Next hit San Francisco and northern California in the redwood forests. Then head into Oregon, with its dramatic coastline at Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area and a drive to Cape Meares Loop. Grab some cheese at the Tillamook Farm Store and have a beach picnic.
Northen Nature. For those looking to be more north this summer, three large, pristine lakes and towering mountain ranges dot the landscape from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to West Glacier National Park, Montana. The drive is less than 300 miles, but you may want to devote some days to exploring this magical landscape.
East Coast. Route 100 is located in south-central Vermont and is about 216 miles along the eastern edge of the Green Mountain National Forest. Start at the southern tip in Samford and end in Newport. While it’s only five hours to drive, enjoy a few days in picturesque villages. Take a gondola to the top of Mount Snow in West Dover for views of the Somerset Reservoir. Learn about maple sugaring at the New England Maple Museum in Pittsford and sample maple fudge at the Green Mountain Sugar House in Ludlow. Don’t forget about some great swimming at Buttermilk Falls. Route 100 and the Green Mountains have spotty cell service, so download a printed map before heading there. North Carolina’s Outer Banks has been trendy recently due to the Netflix show, and we can see why! Its 100-mile stretch of barrier islands makes it perfect for anyone who wants to experience beach-style, rich history and natural beauty.
No Cars allowed. Ditch the car and enjoy more walks, hikes and bikes! Mackinac Island, Michigan, is between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas on Lake Huron. Mackinac Island has been a popular destination since the late 19th century. Historic buildings in the postcard-worthy downtown area hold boutiques and restaurants. Have a bike tour and stop at the Mackinac Island winery. Before leaving, get some fudge! The island’s seven confectionaries crank out 10,000 pounds of fudge a day! Escape California’s busy city life and head to the Channel Islands National Park. Five of these eight small islands off the coast of Santa Barbara can be accessed by private plane, boat or ferries, which operate several times a week in season. The trip through the Pacific takes between one hour to four hours each way. Isolation and a unique mix of warm and cool ocean waters fuel biodiversity on both land and sea. Birdwatchers come to the islands to spot various birds and the only nest population of California brown pelicans along the west coast.
Music Junkies. If you want more music and an urban summer vacation, Nashville and Austin are right up your alley! Austin is the “Live Music Capital of the World”. Experience the vibrant music scene and food trucks. In Nashville, immerse yourself in the country music scene and lively nightlife with the Southern hospitality of this music city. Enjoy Nashville’s hot chicken, biscuits, and gravy for brunch and discover its eclectic neighborhoods and cultural attractions.
So, make some beautiful memories during this summer’s getaways. Soak up the sun and keep the positive mental attitude flowing!
