Why Travel in August?
August travel destinations are popular tourist attractions in the USA. School is out, the sun is shining, and many places are buzzing with festivals, outdoor fun, and special events. Whether you’re planning a road trip, a beach getaway, or a quiet mountain escape, August gives you plenty of options.
This article is your full guide to the Top 10 Places to Travel in August You’ll Love, all within the United States. We’ve made sure each destination is perfect for the summer vacation spots and offers unique experiences this time of year.
Table of Contents
- Quick Glance: Best August Travel Spots in the USA
- 1. Asheville, North Carolina
- 2. San Diego, California
- 3. Glacier National Park, Montana
- 4. Bar Harbor, Maine
- 5. Chicago, Illinois
- 6. Portland, Oregon
- 7. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
- 8. Charleston, South Carolina
- 9. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
- 10. Seattle, Washington
- Wrap-Up: How to Choose the Best August Destination in the USA
- FAQs: Traveling in August in the USA
Quick Glance: Best August Travel Spots in the USA
| Destination | Type of Experience | Best For | Average August Temp (°F) | Highlights |
| Asheville, NC | Mountain / Nature | Couples, Nature Lovers | 65–85°F | Blue Ridge Parkway, breweries |
| San Diego, CA | Coastal / Urban | Families, Beachgoers | 65–77°F | Beaches, zoo, family fun |
| Glacier National Park | National Park / Hiking | Hikers, Photographers | 50–80°F | Trails, wildlife, lakes |
| Bar Harbor, ME | Coastal / Small Town | Couples, Relaxation | 55–78°F | Acadia National Park, seafood |
| Chicago, IL | City / Festivals | Everyone | 70–85°F | Music, lakefront, food |
| Portland, OR | Nature / Urban Blend | Solo Travelers | 60–80°F | Forest trails, craft coffee |
| Lake Tahoe, CA/NV | Lakeside / Mountains | Adventure Seekers | 50–79°F | Kayaking, hiking, cool nights |
| Charleston, SC | Historic / Romantic | Couples, Foodies | 75–90°F | Architecture, cuisine, beaches |
| Yellowstone, WY | Wildlife / Nature | Families, Explorers | 50–75°F | Geysers, bison, scenic drives |
| Seattle, WA | City / Coastal Mountains | Everyone | 60–78°F | Space Needle, Puget Sound, parks |
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Why Visit in August:
Asheville sits in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering cool mountain breezes and stunning views — Among ideal travel locations of August for escaping the summer heat.
What to Do:
- Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway
- Hike through Pisgah National Forest
- Explore downtown art galleries and cafés
- Visit the famous Biltmore Estate
Perfect for: Couples, nature lovers, and hikers.
2. San Diego, California
Why Visit in August:
San Diego is known for its sunny skies, gentle ocean waves, and family-friendly attractions. August is peak beach season here.
What to Do:
- Visit La Jolla Cove for sea lions
- Spend a day at the San Diego Zoo
- Relax on Coronado Beach
- Enjoy tacos and sunsets in Pacific Beach
Perfect for: Families, beach lovers, and laid-back travellers.
3. Glacier National Park, Montana
Why Visit in August:
The snow is gone, trails are open, and the weather is ideal for hiking. It is top destination of August travel recommendations — jaw-dropping national park.
What to Do:
- Hike the Hidden Lake Trail
- Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Spot bears, moose, and mountain goats
- Kayak on Lake McDonald
Perfect for: Hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers.
4. Bar Harbor, Maine
Why Visit in August:
Bar Harbor offers a cool coastal breeze, fewer bugs, and the freshest lobster. It’s also the doorstep to Acadia National Park.
What to Do:
- Explore Acadia’s coastline by bike or hike
- Take a whale watching tour
- Try blueberry pie and lobster rolls
- Walk the Shore Path at sunset
Perfect for: Couples, foodies, and quiet getaways.
5. Chicago, Illinois
Why Visit in August:
August is festival season in Chicago. Music, food and outdoor fun are everywhere in this city, especially along Lake Michigan.
What to Do:
- Catch a concert at Millennium Park
- Dine along the Riverwalk
- Take a boat architecture tour
- Attend the Chicago Air and Water Show
Perfect for: Culture seekers, families, and weekenders.
6. Portland, Oregon
Why Visit in August:
Cool weather, urban forests, and an unbeatable craft food scene make Portland a great August pick & is among Top vacation spots in August.
What to Do:
- Hike Forest Park
- Visit the Japanese Garden
- Discover food carts and coffee shops
- Shop at Powell’s City of Books
Perfect for: Solo travellers, artists, and eco-tourists.
7. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Why Visit in August:
Crystal-clear waters and forested trails make Lake Tahoe a dream in August. It’s warm during the day and cool at night.
What to Do:
- Go paddleboarding or kayaking
- Hike Eagle Lake Trail
- Swim or relax on Sand Harbor Beach
- Ride the Heavenly Gondola
Perfect for: Active travellers, families, and romantic escapes.
8. Charleston, South Carolina
Why Visit in August:
Although it’s warm, Charleston’s beauty shines in summer. Picture horse-drawn carriages, pastel-hued homes, waterfront dining.
What to Do:
- Walk along Rainbow Row
- Visit historic plantations
- Eat shrimp and grits or crab cakes
- Head to nearby Folly Beach
Perfect for: Couples, history buffs, and food lovers.
9. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Why Visit in August:
August offers the best chance to see wildlife and visit geysers without road closures.
What to Do:
- Watch Old Faithful erupt
- See bison in Lamar Valley
- Hike the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Camp under the stars
Perfect for: Families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers.
10. Seattle, Washington
Why Visit in August:
Seattle is warm and dry in August — a rare treat. The city is full of events, great coffee, and mountain views.
What to Do:
- Take a ferry across Puget Sound
- Visit Pike Place Market
- Ride to the top of the Space Needle
- Relax in Discovery Park
Perfect for: Urban explorers, first-time visitors, and foodies.
Wrap-Up: How to Choose the Best August Destination in the USA
When picking from the Top 10 Places to Travel in August You’ll Love, think about what kind of trip you want:
- Beach Vacation? → Try San Diego or Lake Tahoe
- Nature & Hiking? → Glacier National Park or Yellowstone
- City Culture? → Chicago or Seattle
- Romantic Getaway? → Asheville or Charleston
FAQs: Traveling in August in the USA
Q: Where is the best place to travel in August in USA?
A: It depends on your vibe! Beachy San Diego, where the sea is right there for your enjoyment; hiking paradise Glacier; proper South Carolina charm.
Q: Is August a good month to travel in the US?
A: Yes! Warm weather, long days, and lots of events make August ideal for travel.
Q: Where is the weather best in August in USA?
A: Cities like Seattle, Bar Harbor, and Portland offer cooler, comfortable temperatures.
