The United States of America is a freakishly huge country with lots of interesting places to explore. Bustling cities, beautiful national parks, iconic monuments and a coast line that beckons you are just a small part of its allure. It does not come as a surprise that the country is on a lot of people’s bucket list.
The problem with such an extensive country is narrowing down on on the options. How do you choose the perfect locations for your holiday? I advocate looking at it by month. That way you can choose a spot that fits perfectly with the season. This post talks about all the best places to spend August in the USA.
If you are visiting The USA during another month, do check out our other posts in the series for inspiration.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my disclaimer for further information.
Table of Contents
1. Orlando, Florida
Orlando is a fun place to spend August in the USA.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Getting there: You can fly into Orlando International Airport and from there rent a car or take a shuttle to your hotel or resort.
Where to stay: The most popular place to stay in Orlando is at one of the 25 Disney World resorts.
Most people wouldn’t think to go to Florida in August. August is one of the hottest months of the year in Orlando, as well as one of the rainiest. But there are some advantages of going to America’s theme-park capital in August you could take advantage of to have a great trip!
With daily high temperatures of 90 degrees Fahrenheit, Orlando in August is hot. You can take advantage of this heat by bringing your family to one of Orlando’s amazing waterparks.
Disney World has Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks which are both popular in the summer months, but there’s also Universal’s Volcano Bay, CoCo Key Waterpark, Island H20, and SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove. You could visit a different water park every day of the week in Orlando!
August is also when most kids have off from school for summer vacation. Summer vacation is more spaced out than other school holidays, which means most families could plan a vacation in August and visit theme parks like Disney World on the weekdays when it’s less crowded.
Worried about the rain? Don’t be! Usually in Florida, it rains hard, but for a short period. Summer showers have a reputation for clearing out Disney World, and rewarding people who wait them out with line-free rides on the roller coasters.
Make sure to bring a trust-worthy plastic rain poncho so your vacation isn’t interrupted by a little rain!
By Katie from KatieCafTravel
Note: If You Are Headed To Orlando Don’t Forget To Check The Local Tours, City Passes And Things To Do In The City Also check out the online tickets to Universal Orlando park. It has a special offer where you can book for 2 days and get 2 days free.
2. Idaho springs, Colorado
Idaho Springs is a great small town to spend August in the USA.
Location: Idaho Springs, Colorado
Getting there: To get to Idaho Springs, fly into the Denver International Airport. From there, rent a car and make the drive to Idaho Springs, which should take about an hour.
Where to stay: Because Idaho Springs is a small town, every place there is near some of the best activities. For resort-style accommodation, consider staying at Indian Hot Springs, one of the most popular places to stay in Idaho Springs.
Idaho Springs is one of the hidden gems to visit in Colorado, and it’s super close to Denver, too. This town is known for its mining history, and it’s nestled right up next to the mountains, so it’s incredibly scenic as well.
The best thing to do when visiting Idaho Springs is to hike up to St Mary’s Glacier. This is one of the more moderate hikes in Colorado if you’re looking for a great view. While the trail does start by going straight uphill, it eventually evens out and leads to an incredible lake next to the glacier. Even in summer, this area almost feels like it’s being air-conditioned because of its location!
The hike overall is only about 2.5 miles out and back, but most people tend to spend at least an hour out by the lake, taking in the view. This is a beautiful spot to have a snack or even lunch with a view.
Another absolute must-visit spot during August in Idaho Springs is Beau Jo’s, the top place to go to try Colorado-style pizza with honey baked into the dough. They have a variety of options on their menu and tons of seating, both indoor and out. If there’s a wait, spend some time walking around the quaint yet charming downtown area of Idaho Springs.
History lovers should visit the Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel. This old mining spot is open for public tours and is fun for all ages, especially those who are interested in Colorado’s mining history. You can see why it is a great spot to spend August in the USA.
By Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages
Note: If You Are Headed To Idaho Springs Don’t Forget To Check The Local Tours, City Passes And Things To Do In The City.
3. Glacier National Park, Montana
If you are looking at Montana then Glacier National Park is a great place to spend August in the USA.
Location: Northern Montana
Getting there: Getting to Glacier National Park is quite easy thanks to the Kalispell City Airport which is conveniently located about 30 mins away from the park entrance. It is also about a 4-hour drive from Butte, MT.
Where to stay: There is an abundance of places to stay during your visit. The park itself contains multiple lodges, hotels, and campgrounds. There are also many lodging/camping options right outside of the park.
If Glacier National Park is on your bucket list, August is the perfect time to visit! Due to its location in upper Montana, it is quite cold most of the year.
In August the high is an average of 75°F and there are fewer crowds than earlier in the summer due to school starting back up.
During your visit to Glacier National Park, you will encounter breathtaking views, an abundance of wildlife, and a variety of activities.
There are over 700 miles of hiking trails in the park which range in length and difficulty. If you’re looking for a stunning hike, the Avalanche Lake hiking trail is one you are sure to enjoy!
Additionally, one of the most famous scenic drives in the USA is found in Glacier National Park. Going-to-the-Sun Road is located in the park and contains over 50 miles of breathtaking scenic views!
Be sure to check the National Park Service website for all current park and road closures, restrictions, and other important information.
By Janae from Adventures With TuckNae
4. Mammoth Lakes, California
Mammoth Lakes in California is an epic spot to spend August in the USA.
Location: Mammoth Lakes, California
Getting there: From San Francisco, Mammoth Lakes is about 260 miles and a good drive of 5 and a half hours. You will have to drive through Yosemite National Park’s famous Tioga Road to get there.
Tioga road is open in summer. If you prefer flying, fly to Mammoth Yosemite Airport (12 minutes from town) or the Eastern Sierra Regional Airport in Bishop (45 minutes from town) and take the very short drive from there to Mammoth Lakes.
Where to stay:If camping is your style, New Shady Rest Campground is a perfect place to stay to hit the popular tourist spots early in the morning before they get crowded.
If you prefer hotels or cabins, Reds Meadow Resort, The Village Lodge and The Westin Monache Resort are awesome.
There is a mandatory paid shuttle service from the town to visit Devil’s Postpile National Monument from 7 AM to 7 PM. If you go before 7 AM, you can drive your own car there.
Rainbow Falls is accessible only in summers, so check the national park website before planning your trip. It is one of the best places to visit in California in summer. Devil’s Postpile National Monument has two major wonders to explore on your visit. The first is the beautiful Rainbow Falls, a 1.3 miles moderate hike from the parking lot. A generous mist creates gorgeous rainbows when the sun hits it midday giving the falls its name.
Get down to the lower falls area to cool down in the water. Next spot is the Devil’s Postpile itself which is a geological wonder. This easy 0.4 mile hike gives you cool views of these huge hexagon shaped rock piles.
Take the top view loop to see the hexagon rocks from the top. Convict Lake must be seen to believe its incredible beauty. The water is so clear, you can kayak here and enjoy the beauty all around.
Or just stick to the shore for hours of peaceful reflection. Mammoth Lakes has more beautiful lakes like June Lake to visit if you have more time on your hands! Definitely one of the top places to spend August in the USA.
By Priyadarshini From Glorious Sunrise
Note: If you are headed to Mammoth lakes, don’t forget to check out the local tours, trips and activities in the area.
5. Los Angeles, California
If you love the big city then Los Angeles is the perfect place to visit and spend August in the USA.
Location: Los Angeles
Getting there: The most popular way to get to the city is by flying into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). It’s located just 18 miles from downtown LA, and you can catch a bus from the airport.
If you’re already in the United States, there are plenty of fantastic overland bus and train routes that run to Lose Angeles
Where to stay: Freehand Los Angeles is a great option as it has a rooftop pool & bar where you’ll get striking views of the city. There’s also an on-site restaurant and a fitness center.
If you’re traveling through the United States in August, then Los Angeles is one of the best places to visit! With its warm temperatures, endless attractions, and plenty of events taking place – it has so much to offer.
What you include on your Los Angeles itinerary will all depend on your travel style, but there are some major attractions you don’t want to miss out on. This includes the iconic Santa Monica Pier, Griffiths Observatory, the Hollywood Sign, and the Walk of Fame.
During your time in the city, you’ll also want to explore Sunset Boulevard, visit one of the many theme parks in LA, or take a road trip along part of the Pacific Coast Highway. However, one of the BEST things to do in Los Angeles is simply wandering around its vibrant neighborhoods.
There are plenty to choose from, but the most popular areas include Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Malibu. All of these neighborhoods have so much to offer, and you’ll find plenty of attractions to visit too.
If you’re heading to LA in August, you should also go to the Aqualillies Water Show and spend an evening at the Summer Night Cinema. As there’s so much to do, it’s best to spend at least 4-5 days in Los Angeles. That way, you can see all the top attractions without having to rush!
I bet you can already see why spending August in the USA in Los Angeles is totally worth it!
By Paula from Paula Pins The Planet
Note: If You Are Headed To Los Angeles Don’t Forget To Check The Local Tours, City Passes And Things To Do In The City.
6. San Francisco, California
One of the most popular places to spend August in the USA at is San Francisco.
Location: San Francisco, California
Getting there: You can fly to San Francisco International airport which is located about 30 miles away from the city and catch the regional metro system called Bart to get you into downtown areas fast.
Where to stay: There are many places to stay throughout the city but for a unique stay and visit why not do it well with a stay at the Palace Hotel right on Market street.
Top attractions to visit in the city includes these popular attractions:
- Coit tower
- Chinatown
- North Beach (little Italy)
- Fisherman’s Wharf area
- Golden Gate Park
- Union Square
- Ferry Plaza at the Embarcadero
- Moscone center and museums
If you are into visiting cool neighborhoods, check out the Mission, Castro, Filmore, the Haight, Hayes Valley or North Beach for some of the unique and fun areas to explore outside of the main tourist attractions in the city.
Noel from Visit California and beyond
Note: If You Are Headed To San Francisco Don’t Forget To Check The Local Tours, City Passes And Things To Do In The City.
7. South Bay, Los Angeles
August in the USA cannot get better than South Bay!
Location: South Bay, Los Angeles
Getting there: The South Bay is a small region just south of Los Angeles, beginning right below LAX (airport) and spanning across a few cities until Long Beach. You will either fly into LAX or can access the South Bay by using the 405 freeway or the Pacific Coast Highway.
Where to stay: There are many hotels and vacation home rentals throughout the South Bay LA. For a true California experience, stay in one of the oceanfront hotels or near one of the piers.
The Beach House Hotel at Hermosa Beach or the Shade Hotels in Manhattan Beach or Redondo Beach are fantastic options.
The South Bay is made up of the popular beach cities Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach that span for about 6 miles down the coast of southern California. These adorable beach towns are fantastic to visit in August when the weather and ocean water is at its warmest, but kids are starting to go back to school and summer crowds are beginning to die down.
There are many incredible things to do in South Bay LA from enjoying the sandy beaches to dining at delicious restaurants (try the Strand House for a fine dining experience!) and enjoying lively nightlife on the Hermosa Beach Pier.
There’s also plenty of shopping to be had including one of the 10 biggest malls in America (Del Amo Mall in Torrance) and boutique shops found in the downtowns of each beach city and along the piers.
Enjoy the ocean by taking a surf lesson in Hermosa Beach or rent a SUP and paddle around the Redondo Beach Harbor. Take some time to walk, bike, or skate down the “strand” that stretches all the way up to Santa Monica. Or, go for a hike on the gorgeous Palos Verdes Peninsula where you will be greeted with panoramic ocean views.
In the beginning of August, you will be treated to experiencing the International Surf Festival. All three beach cities in the South Bay come together to host competitions and celebrate beach culture.
The three signature events are the Lifeguard Medley Relay, the Pier-to-Pier Swim, and the 6-Man Volleyball Tournament. It’s a can’t miss event and an incredible thing to do in August in the USA!
By Janelle from Make The Trip Matter
8. Moab, Utah
Moab is an intriguing place to spend August in the USA.
Location: Moab, Utah
Getting there: You can get to Moab by flying to Salt Lake City and renting a car or straight to Moab airport
Where to stay: Inca Inn
Moab is one of the top outdoor destinations in the United States. Located in Utah’s red rock country, this town is a gateway to adventure.
While many travelers know Moab as a gateway to Utah’s popular national parks, Canyonlands and Arches National park, this town offers so much more!
Here you can kayak or paddle board on the Colorado River, test your mountain biking skills on the slick rock, and try your hand at rock climbing. Aside from the popular hiking trails in Moab, this area also offers many hidden gems where you can test your orientation skills and get away from the crowds.
Summer is the most expensive time to visit this part of Utah. It’s also the busiest time with scores of travelers coming from all over the country. It’s not uncommon to see triple digits in summer in Moab which makes being outside and let alone hiking difficult especially in mid-day.
Mid-to-late August is a perfect time to visit Moab as temperatures are more mild and crowds begin to dwindle. It’s also easier to camp and enjoy outdoor opportunities like hiking, mountain biking and stargazing.
Moab has some of the best dark skies in the United States and the nearby Dead Horse Canyon State Park even received a status of the International Dark Sky Park.
By Daria from the Discovery Nut
Note: If You Are Headed To Moab Don’t Forget To Check The Local Tours, City Passes And Things To Do In The City.
9. Grand Rapids, Michigan
August in the USA? The Grand Rapids are an epic place to visit!
Location: Grand Rapids is located on the west coast of Michigan, just 25 miles east of Lake Michigan.
Getting There: The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is located just 13 miles southeast of downtown Grand Rapids. From there, it’s just a quick 20 minute drive into the heart of the city.
Where to Stay: The Amway Grand Plaza is one of the most well-known and highest-rated hotels in the city.
August in the USA is a wonderful time to visit Grand Rapids, Michigan, because the weather during summer is absolutely perfect! August temperatures average between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors without getting too cold or too hot!
There’s so much to see and do during August in Grand Rapids. You can visit an eight-acre Japanese garden at the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. There are also numerous museums located downtown.
Since Michigan winters are so harsh, Michigan summers are typically spent at the lake, and families make every effort to enjoy the warm weather to its fullest while it lasts. There are nearly 20 Lake Michigan beaches within just a short drive of Grand Rapids.
Grand Haven Beach is one of the most popular choices during August in the USA, and it’s just a 30 minute car ride away.
In late August, the local apple orchards are ripe with fruit, and apple picking becomes a popular seasonal activity. Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery has over 125 acres of orchards and is a popular place in Grand Rapids for over 35 varieties of freshly harvested apples, in addition to peaches, apricots, and nectarines.
They also operate as a restaurant and winery, offering house-made wines, ciders, baked goods, and lunch.
You’ll definitely have a wonderful experience if you choose to visit Grand Rapids during August in the USA!
By Jillian Michelle from Adventure Dragon
Note: If you are headed to the Grand Rapids, don’t forget to check out the local tours in the area.
10. Hudson valley, New York
The Hudson valley is a prefect place to spend August in the USA if you want to get away from the city!
Location: Hudson valley, New York
Getting There: The easiest way to get to the Hudson Valley is by car. You can fly into any of the airports in NYC such as LaGuardia or JFK and drive about an hour to 90 minutes north.
If you want to skip the drive through NYC, consider flying into Stewart airport which will put you within a short driving distance to most of the Hudson Valley attractions.
Located a little over an hour outside of NYC the Hudson Valley is a great place to visit anytime of year. However for those looking to beat the heat and experience a different NY experience the Hudson Valley is a must visit in August.
The Hudson Valley is home to approximately 60 wineries so wine tastings are definitely one of top things to do. You can even stay at a farmhouse right on a Hudson Valley vineyard.
For warmer August days head over to the town of Phonecia where you can go tubing on the river. This is a great way to cool off on a hot summer day.
A weekend in the Hudson Valley is a must for August in the USA. With everything from wineries and breweries to hikes, lakes and rivers there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.
By Taima from Poor In A Private Plane
11. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Looking for national parks to spend August in the USA? Grand Canyon National park is legendry!
Location: The Grand Canyon is near the northwest corner of Arizona near the state lines of Utah and Nevada. It is about 3.5 hours north of the Grand Canyon and about 4 hours east of Las Vegas.
Getting There: The closest international airport to the Grand Canyon is the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). You can also look into flights into Las Vegas. You will need to rent a car to get from the airport to the Grand Canyon.
Where to Stay: One of the best places to stay near the Grand Canyon is at the El Tovar Hotel. This is a beautiful property sitting on the south rim of the Grand Canyon. This is a historic and beautiful hotel with amazing views. There are standard and deluxe rooms sleeping two to five people.
The Grand Canyon is one of the most visited sites in the United States. The sheer number of cool Grand Canyon quotes just shows how popular the site is! The Grand Canyon is about 277 miles long and with a depth of 6,000 feet. Whether you’re an avid hiker going from rim to rim or wanting to relax and enjoy the views, there are lots of great activities to do while you are there.
The Desert View Watchtower is a fun place to visit. There are great views of the canyon from the top of the tower. This is a great place to watch the sunset.
If you don’t want to hike down into the canyon, the Rim Trail is a paved path that will take you by many of the most popular viewpoints of the canyon like Mather Point. You can easily access Mather Point and the Rim Trail from the Visitor Center.
If you are looking to bike, a great place to ride is Hermit Road. Between March 1st and November 30th, this road is closed to private vehicles. You can rent a bike at Bright Angel Bicycles at Mather Point. If you are traveling with kids, they have trailers and tag-along bikes.
The best trail for hiking down into the Grand Canyon is the South Kaibab Trail. This trail takes about 4-6 hours to hike. This is a strenuous hike so make sure to start early in the morning and take lots of water with you.
Definitely one of the top parks to spend August in the USA!
By Candice from CS Ginger
Note: If You Are Headed To Grand Canyon Don’t Forget To Check The Local Tours.
12. Sheboygan, Wisconsin
An offbeat place for August in the USA? Look no further than Sheboygan!
Location: Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Getting There: Sheboygan’s closest airport is in Milwaukee (MKE). A direct flight to Milwaukee and a subsequent one-hour bus journey will bring you there.
Where To Stay: Be sure to book pleasant accommodation. You can count on finding peace at the GrandStay Residential Suites Hotel in Sheboygan.
Known as the “Spirit on the Lake,” Sheboygan is a city with a lot to discover. Their coastal hamlet has a lot to offer, from stunning vistas of Lake Michigan and two miles of sandy beaches to top-tier sailing and charter fishing. Around 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Milwaukee, near the mouth of the Sheboygan River, you’ll find this city on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Sheboygan is a great place to go with the kids since it offers so many different things to do, from attending a concert or a play to relaxing on the beach or playing golf.
There are a lot of things to do in Sheboygan. The August Special Events this year will make your vacation. Do not miss out on the fishing event at COHO Fishing Derby.
Bless your ears by listening to the great Country Music Artists at Country Music Weekend. Attend Ginger-beer Weekend at the Food at the Inn. Moreover, SCIO’s Farmer’s Market brings local farmers and consumers together to distribute farm-fresh goods.
Benefiting local farmers, spreading awareness about the need for healthy eating, and providing a fun and engaging social event are all goals it strives to achieve. You can visit the Farmer’s Market every Wednesday and Saturday.
By Paulina from Paulina On The Road
13. Japanese Botanical Garden, Portland
Love sculpted gardens? Then the Japanese botanical garden in Portland is great to spend time in August in the USA.
Location: Japanese Botanical Garden, Portland
Getting There: The Japanese garden is right below the International Rose Garden in Washington Park. You turn left at Tichner Drive and then head toward Kingston Avenue. You will see the Garden Welcoming Center right in front of you.
Where to Stay: You should stay in a hotel deluxe. It is one of the best rated hotels in Portland and walking distance to the Japanese Garden. It is an opportunity to roam around Washington Park and discover its hidden gems.
The Japanese botanical Garden in Portland, Oregon, is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to. It is a place where you can relax, reflect, and meditate.
It is also a good place to learn about Japanese culture outside of Japan. In summertime during august, the place is less crowded and lush green. Greenery surrounds you in every corner.
The strolling Pond Garden is one of the most beautiful parts of the garden. You can hear the waterfall streaming down the lake and watch the koi fish swimming around. You can then walk around the moon bridge or the zig zag bridge to enjoy an astonishing view. It surely can put you in a meditation state.
The natural garden and the Tea Garden are other places to reflect and relax. The tea Garden is where you can sip Japanese tea while enjoying the tranquility of the place. The Natural Garden is where you can walk around and learn about trees from different origins.
By Ossama from Awesome Traveler
14. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is a fun place to spend August in the USA.
Location: Near Bar Harbor Maine
Getting There: Acadia National Park is located in Eastern Maine across three main parts, Mount Desert Island, Schoodic Peninsula, and Isle au Haut. The main area (Mount Desert Island) of Acadia is located adjacent to Bar Harbor, Maine
Where to Stay: The best area to stay for Acadia National Park is in Bar Harbor Maine. There is no shortage of hotels to stay in Bar Harbor. The Inn at Mount Desert is a gorgeous local B&B in Bar Harbor and a great option, although certainly not budget.
The Jewel of the New England, Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful National Parks in the United States. Acadia is named in honor of the Acadians, the early French settlers to the region. The park features rugged coastlines, great hikes, lighthouses, and rich biodiversity.
Among the best hikes are the Precipice Trail Hike, Beehive Trail, and Jordan Cliff Trail. Cadillac Mountain in the Park is also famous as the first place to see the sunrise in the United States.
August is the perfect time to visit Acadia National Park. The weather tends to be drier and warmer, along with the long days allowing for experiencing all the park has to offer. Earlier in the season some of the most popular trails close for falcon nesting as well. Additionally, many of the rocky trails are dangerous during inclement weather so August in the USA allows a higher probability for safe access.
By Anwar from Beyond My Door
15. Denali National Park, Alaska
Always dreamed of visiting Alaska? Denali National Park is a fun place to spend August in the USA.
Location: Denali National Park, Alaska
Getting there: The best way to reach Denali National Park is first to land at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Alaska’s largest town and the main travel hub in the state.
From there, rent a car and go on the 4-hour scenic drive to Denali, about 250 miles north of Anchorage.
Where to stay: Though the number of options to stay within Denali is limited, several campsites, as well as lodges, are available. These lodgings tend to fill out quickly in summer, but accommodations can be found in nearby towns of Healy or Cantwell.
Denali National Park is Alaska’s most popular attraction and, for good reasons, a must-see on any Alaska itinerary. Part of Denali’s appeal is the famous Mt Denali, Alaska’s tallest mountain and even Northern America’s highest peak at 20,310 feet.
Unfortunately, the elusive summit tends to hide behind heavy and thick clouds, and being able to see clearly and thoroughly on a clear day is a rare event. So while many thrill-seeking, confirmed adventurers try their chances climbing Mt Denali, another alternative to see it up close is to board a helicopter ride.
Denali is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With numerous hiking opportunities, explore the beautiful mountain range on a day hike or multi-day overnight treks.
However, given the remoteness of the park and the wildlife present, hiking independently is best reserved for experienced hikers. Or join one of the ranger-led tours, which will give great insights about the park.
Speaking about wildlife, the park is home to black bears and grizzlies, as well as caribou, Dall sheep, moose, and wolves. They can be easily spotted from the road, so be mindful if you wander in the wilderness and follow wildlife safety precautions from the park.
No personal car is allowed on the park road; however, a shuttle is available in the summer months. The bus ride can be long – some 13-hour round trip to where the road ends. Along the way, stop at the Eielson Visitor Center and at Wonder Lake deep in the park.
You can see why Denali National Park is a great place to spend August in the USA.
By Patricia Pagenel from Ze Wandering Frogs
Note: If You Are Headed To Denali National Park Don’t Forget To Check The Local Tours.
*This post contains Affiliate link
