August marks the height of summer throughout the USA, foundational time for adventure, relaxation, and celebrations with friends and family. You are faced with warm weather for the majority of the country, and a multitude of landscapes (beach, lakes, mountains, cities) so there are so many amazing places to explore. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, searching for family fun, or craving a cool escape in the alpine, this guide for the Best Places to Visit in the Month of August in the USA will have you covered.
Why travel to the USA in August?
Here are a few of our reasons why August is a fantastic time to travel to anywhere in the United States:
- Weather is fabulous: Most states have sunny days perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor festivals, in addition to plenty of great camping weather.
- Ideal timing for family travel: It’s the last full month of summer break for schools, perfect for a family holiday.
- Festivals and events: August is full of food festivals, music concerts, county fairs, and cultural events.
- Nature: National parks, beaches, lakes, and activities are in full swing and there is something for every type of traveller.
So, let’s get into the awesome places you should check out in the Month of August in the USA!
1. Maui, Hawaii – Tropical Island Vacation
Why Go: With the least amount of rain and excellent beach weather, August is one of the best months to visit Maui. The island has a combination of adventure, relaxation and is simply steeped in Hawaiian culture.
Top Attractions:
- Drive the Road to Hana
- Snorkel at Molokini Crater
- Watch the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park
- Attend traditional Hawaiian luaus
Great for: Beach lovers, couples, honeymooners, adventure-loving travelers.
2. Glacier National Park, Montana – Alpine Splendor
Why Go: August is one of the best months to go to this great gem in Montana. Snow has melted, all roads and hiking trails are open, and wildlife is enthusiastic.
Top Attractions:
- Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Hike to Grinnell Glacier or Hidden Lake
- Take scenic boat trip
- Look for mountain goats and bears
Great for: Hikers, photographers, nature lovers.
3. Chicago, Illinois – Summer in the City
Why Visit: Chicago is bustling in August. Music festivals, food markets, and warm weather near Lake Michigan
What To Do:
- Catch Lollapalooza, or the Chicago Air and Water Show
- Walk through Millennium Park and see The Bean
- Hang out at North Avenue Beach
- Check out the many world class museums, and pizza
Perfect for: Urban adventurers, festival-goers, chow-hounds
4. Outer Banks, North Carolina – Oceanside Bliss
Why Visit: These barrier islands along the Atlantic Ocean offer quaint beach towns with water sports and historical lighthouses without the throngs of tourists of other beach towns.
What To Do:
- Visit Cape Hatteras National Seashore
- Try kiteboarding or surfing
- See the wild horses in Corolla
- Climb the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Perfect for: Families, couples, beachcombers.
5. Yellowstone National Park – A Natural Paradise
Why Visit: August is at the peak season in Yellowstone so all parts of the park are accessible. Expect warm days with exciting geysers and abundant bison, elk and bears…
Top Things To Do:
- Be cajoled into watching Old Faithful erupt
- Explode with excitement to witness Grand Prismatic Spring’s kaleidoscopic colours
- Drive through Lamar Valley marveling at the wildlife
- Spend your nights camping under the stars
Perfect for: Families, campers, outdoor adventurers.
6. New York City, New York – A City of Events
Why Visit: NYC in August is filled with events from street fairs to concerts to Broadway shows to limitless city experiences. And while the city is still always buzzing, there are still a fair number of locals that leave the city to travel during the month of August, providing a slightly less crowded experience.
Top Things To Do:
- Catch Shakespeare in the Park
- Get a ferry to the Statue of Liberty
- Explore Central Park or find a rooftop bar
- Walk the High Line at sunset
Perfect for: Solo travelers, friends trip, art and culture lovers.
7. Sedona, Arizona – Desert Magic with Fewer People
Why Go: Sedona has the warm daytime temperatures of summer, but the mornings and evenings are pleasant. You can hike the red rock trails, visit the spiritual retreats, and enjoy incredible stargazing in dark skies.
Top Things to Do:
- Hike Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock
- Visit vortex sites for energy entry to practice energy healing
- Tour art galleries and spas
- Take a pink jeep tour
Perfect For: Wellness enthusiasts, Hikers, Couples
8. Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park, Maine – Coastal Charms
Why Go: August has the perfect conditions for exploring the rugged coast of Maine and the pine-covered mountains. You can have fresh lobster, and cool breezes from the ocean and mountains all while hiking beautiful public trails.
Top Things to Do:
- Drive around Park Loop Road
- Watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain
- Try a lobster roll by the water
- Bike the Carriage Roads
Perfect For: Nature, family, seafood lovers.
9. Asheville, North Carolina – Mountains and Music
Why Go: Asheville is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and has an excellent combination of fresh mountain air, summer music festivals, and a vibrant food and craft beer scene.
Top Activities:
- Visit Biltmore Estate
- Trek through Blue Ridge Parkway
- Take in some summer music series in downtown
- Visit local breweries
Good for: Roadtrippers, culture lovers, couples.
10. Santa Cruz, California – Surf and Sun
Why Go: August is the sunniest month in Santa Cruz. The beach town laid back vibe, a fun boardwalk amusement park, and nearby redwood forests all make it a unique summer destination.
Top Activities:
- Surf at Pleasure Point or Cowell Beach
- Ride the Giant Dipper at the Boardwalk.
- Hike around Henry Cowell Redwoods
- Enjoy chowder at the Wharf.
Good for: Families, surfers, road trips.
11. San Francisco, California – Summer in the Bay
Why Go: Although froggy mornings are common, San Francisco offers cooler temperatures that are perfect for walking, discovering sightseeing, and enjoying cultural events.
Top Activities:
- Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge
- Visit Alcatraz Island
- Walk through Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown
- Take a cable car ride
Good for: City travelers, couples, architects.
✈️ Final Thoughts: Where Will August Take you?
August is one of the best months for travel throughout the United States with some of the most favorable weather. Whether you’re in search of tropical beaches, majestic mountains, vibrant cities or relaxing beach getaways, these Best Places to Visit in the Month of August in the USA will not disappoint.
From islands in Hawaii to culture in New York City to the outdoor experience in a National Park, July is a great time to plan your American summer vacation.
📍Ready to continue the journey?
👉 Check out the latest blog on the Best Places to Visit in the Month of August in India & Best Places to Travel in India in 2025 for post-monsoon gems and travel ideas.
