1. About.com
  2. Travel
  3. Hotels & Resorts

Discuss in my forum

Top 10 Summer Destinations in the United States

By , About.com Guide

Get away for a weekend or a week to one of these top U.S. summer destinations. From the wine country of Northern California to the sun and fun in Orlando's theme parks, these top summer destinations offer fun for every traveler.

1. New York City

Catch a Broadway show, take in a museum or catch a taping of "Saturday Night Live." Special events in the summer include the Tribeca Film Festival, the Museum Mile Festival, Summer Restaurant Week and Shakespeare in the Park. For more events, check the NYC Month-by-Month Calendar at About.com's New York City for Visitors.
Best Hotels in New York City
More Great Hotels in New York City

2. San Francisco

Escape the summer heat in the city by the Bay. Take in the arts and entertainment at the famous Haight Street Fair, catch a few of the 250 films from around the world at the International Lesbian and Gay Film Festival, and spend the Fourth of July on Pier 39. Also see About.com's San Francisco for Visitors.
Best Hotels in San Francisco
More Great Hotels in San Francisco

3. Las Vegas

It may be witheringly hot in the desert, but the casinos on the Strip really cool things down. Catch Cirque du Soleil or a magic show, pig out at a buffet, and try your luck at roulette or blackjack. For more ideas and advice see About.com's Las Vegas for Visitors.
Best Hotels in Las Vegas
More Great Hotels in Las Vegas

4. San Diego

The breezes off the ocean should cool down any summer vacation to this beautiful city. San Diego gets high marks as a family destination, with its zoos, museums, beaches, theme parks and bicycle trails. See the San Diego travel guide see About.com's California for Visitors.
Best Hotels in San Diego
More Great Hotels in San Diego

5. Chicago

Don't miss fireworks at the Navy Pier, the Chicago Gospel Festival or the Air and Water Show at North Avenue Beach. For more ideas, take a look at About.com's Chicago for Visitors.
Recommended Hotels in Chicago

6. Washington, D.C.

Explore the International Spy Museum this summer, or explore American culture. Tour famous sits such as the Capitol Building, FBI headquarters, and the Library of Congress. See also About.com's Washington, D.C. for Visitors.
Recommended Hotels in Washington, D.C.

7. Los Angeles

Hang out on the square mile of cool known as NoHo (North Hollywood), take in a theme park, or try out for a game show. It's easy to get starstruck in this city, with its beautiful mild weather year round. See also About.com's Los Angeles for Visitors.
Best Hotels in Los Angeles
More Great Hotels in Los Angeles

8. Orlando

The theme park capital of the world is, not surprisingly, the top family destination. Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World are the major draws, but there are plenty of smaller venues as well. Tour like a pro with advice from About.com's Orlando Travel Guide from Florida for Visitors.
Best Hotels in Orlando
More Great Hotels in Orlando

9. Atlanta

Spend the day in merry old England during the Georgia Renaissance Festival, take in some culture at the Atlanta National Arts Festival and join in the Gay Pride Festival.
Recommended Hotels in Atlanta

10. San Antonio

The romantic Riverwalk is a focal point of many trips to this city in the heart of Texas. Experience traditional charro horsemanship at the Saint Anthony Day Anniversary Charreada, dance at the Midnight Rodeo, catch Freedom Fest on the Fourth of July and, well, "don't forget" the Alamo. See the San Antonio travel guide at About.com's Texas for Visitors.
Recommended Hotels in San Antonio

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved. 

A part of The New York Times Company.