Summer's here, and so is the heat! But who says your getaway has to be all sunburns and sweaty selfies? Say hello to coolcations. Coolcation- cool vacation, is a new travel trend that has taken the front seat when it comes to a fun journey, your ultimate escape to breezy destinations where the air is crisp, the vibes are refreshing, and the adventures are the only thing to raise the heat. Think oversized hoodies instead of swimsuits, hot cocoa instead of daiquiris, and campfires under the stars instead of sunbathing by the pool.
Well, we have picked some of the most dramatic cities (in terms of summer weather), which won't give you a tan but an exhilarating experience of cold breeze, chilling nights, and mild days. Check out our best recommended places to spend a coolcation.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
A place where summer still feels like summer but without the sticky heat- pack your bags and head to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. With elevations ranging from 6,000 to over 11,000 feet, the air here is cool, fresh, and the nature around is covered in the crystalline beauty of mist. What makes the region more surprising is the changing elevation, which also changes the climate. The days will be right to hike or take a dip in nearby lakes, whereas the nights are cool enough for camping with a bonfire. You will have clear skies for stargazing, and magical mornings to see the horizon melt in the sunlight and bison passing by.
Weather can be unpredictable, so pack well, carry layers and a raincoat, and be aware of the wilds.
Olympic National Park
Looking to dodge the heat and explore one of the most unique landscapes in the US? Olympic National Park in Washington State is nature's answer to the question, "What if summer didn't feel like a sauna?" With its cool coastal vibes, misty rainforests, and snow-dusted mountains, even in summer, this place is a colocation destination to explore.
Spread across a million acres, the Olympic has a diverse ecosystem, which is like three parks in one. There are lush, green rainforests that stay damp and dreamy, and then the rugged, wild beaches that are perfect for superb walks and sunset views. Then come the alpine peaks where temps dip low enough to make you forget it's =summer. And here's the fun part- while most people are heading to hot, dry destinations, Olympic stays relatively peaceful, giving you space to explore, unwind, and soak up the natural magic, without ever breaking a sweat.
Rangeley, Maine
Coolcation not only means freezing or near-freezing temperatures! It can be cool lake breezes, quiet forest mornings, and well, no humidity. Rangeley, Maine, tucked away in the wild and wonderful western mountains, is a charming little town that is nothing less than a postcard come to life. The beauty is beyond definition, and the temperature is just as perfect as you want for this coolcation. Keep the days for kayaking on Rangeley Lake and hiking to scenic trails. And when the sun dips, you can grab that hoodie and set a lakeside bonfire. One thing to note is that your phone signal gets lost. Well, isn't that the best way to have a rejuvenating time? This hidden gem is less crowded than other destinations. No crowds, no chaos—just peaceful trails, sparkling water, and mountain air so crisp it'll have you wondering why you ever vacationed anywhere else.
Sun Valley, Idaho
Sun Valley- don't be fooled by the name Sun Valley, thinking it will be unbearably hot. It is the place where the temps stay cool, the skies remain blue, and the vibe is effortlessly laid-back. Known as a winter wonderland for skiers, Sun Valley transforms into a hidden summer paradise when the snow melts, offering fresh mountain air, stunning alpine views, and just the right amount of sunshine. What adventures you cannot enjoy here. Go for hiking, biking, or horseback riding through wildflower-covered trails. The evenings are the time to layer into a sweater, go for some stargazing, or enjoy live music in the open air. With its small-town charm, Sun Valley also has no dearth of gourmet food that people can relish in the local flavors.
Seattle, Washington
Say hello to Seattle, where mild weather, lush green scenery, and urban adventure collide in the best way. While the rest of the country is melting, Seattle keeps it breezy. The average highs are in the 70s, with low humidity. This city has everything: waterfront views, forest hikes just minutes from downtown, ferry rides with postcard-worthy backdrops, and a food scene. One moment you are kayaking on Lake Union with the skyline in view, and the next, you're exploring the neighborhoods and vibing to live music.
Moving away from city life, Seattle gives you that nature-meets-city energy that feels like a breath of fresh, cool air. It's the perfect blend of pleasant cool temperatures and nonstop things to do for a relaxing and adventurous colocation in the US.
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