Beat the heat and explore the best places to visit in the US in August.

  1. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park, set in the rugged Rocky Mountains, is simply amazing in August, because the majority of the snow has melted and you can enjoy high-altitude hiking trails. One of the best things to do is to check out all the gorgeous alpine lakes, alien-like pine forests, and jagged mountain peaks in the pristine air with clear skies and warm weather. 

 

Even driving the Going-to-the-Sun road has its benefits in August, when you can take in all the scenic vistas that this famous driving route provides right through the heart of Glacier. Hiking to Hidden Lake Overlook or Grinnell Glacier is are awe-inspiring experience when you get those intense icy blue waters against the colors of wildflowers. 

 

Wildlife abounds in August as well, with many common sightings of mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and the rare grizzly bear if you are lucky. August also offers some great light for photography. Normally, the timing for sunsets is the best, but it’s usually an epic sunrise or sunset, either on a mountain top or at a lake with the setting sun. 

 

 

 

  2. The Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks is a series of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, offering a laid-back beach vacation in August. With their wide, sandy beaches where warm water flows in seamlessly from the Atlantic Ocean, there is plenty of beach time to be had at popular destinations such as Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, and Cape Hatteras.

 

There are several notable places to see in the area, including the Wright Brothers National Memorial and the incredible Cape Hatteras lighthouse. If you are feeling adventurous, try kayaking in the calm waters of the sound, kiteboarding in the waves of the ocean, or taking a scenic sunset dolphin cruise. Bite into some of the fresh, local seafood, including mouthwatering dishes such as crab cakes and fried fish.

 

 

  3. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a quintessential destination, especially in August, which is perhaps the best time to visit since all park roads are open, letting visitors take in all the park's many sites. 

 

In August, visitors will enjoy warm, sunny days that allow ample time for sightseeing and hiking. Visitors can witness Old Faithful erupt and marvel at the colorful beauty of Grand Prismatic Spring. Spot bison, elk, and wolves at the beautiful Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley. 

 

Scenic drives around Yellowstone Lake and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone are full of iconic landscapes. August is a busy month in Yellowstone, so try to arrive early to stay ahead of the crowds and also secure your reservations far in advance.

 

 

  4. Asheville, North Carolina

It is a cool mountain retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a multi-faceted mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. The city is well-known for its historic Biltmore Estate, America's largest privately owned home, where visitors can tour the mansion and gardens. 

 

The downtown area of Asheville is bustling with farm-to-table restaurants, live music, local businesses, parks, and a local beer scene. August is the best time to visit the nearby waterfalls, such as Looking Glass Falls and Catawba Falls, and the Pisgah National Forest, which are must-visit locations for endless adventure.

 

 

 

  5. Napa Valley, California

August is the most festive time in Napa Valley, as August marks the start of grape harvest season. It’s a lively time of year in wine country in Northern California, with activity and events all around the vineyards. 

 

For wine lovers, tastings can be enjoyed at renowned wineries like Robert Mondavi and Castello di Amorosa, and other high-quality places like Domaine Carneros. There are hot air balloon rides for the truly adventurous that depart at sunrise for an incomparable view of the rolling vineyards. 

 

Gourmet food is abundant, and whether it’s from a Michelin-starred restaurant or a casual vineyard picnic, visitors will not go hungry. August is one of the warmest months in wine country, giving visitors an optimal opportunity to explore quaint towns such as Yountville and St. Helena or take a leisurely bike ride through the idyllic scenery.

 

 

 

  6. Lake Tahoe (Nevada/California)

Lake Tahoe, which they say is the best alpine lake in North America, is located right on the California-Nevada border. This beautiful lake is the perfect summer destination for water and outdoor recreation.

 

Lake Tahoe's clear, fresh waters are great for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding if water recreation is your thing. Emerald Bay is a great location to enjoy recreational activities on the water. For the hiking enthusiast, popular trails include Eagle Lake and Mount Tallac, where you will have stunning views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains. 

 

Lake Tahoe also offers a variety of dining options, from lakeside restaurants to unique beach bonfires. While you are there, make sure to take an evening cruise at sunset. While August is one of the warmest months of the summer season, you'll also enjoy cool nights perfect for camping or for spending the night in a cozy Tahoe cabin.

 

 

 

  7. Chicago, Illinois

August invades Chicago with a vibrant mix of urban excitement, cultural happenings, and those lazy days by the lake. Typically, the weather is warm and perfect for exploring the city on foot or by bicycle. 

 

With major events such as Lollapalooza and the Chicago Air & Water Show drawing people from across the country, the place is buzzing with energy. Whether it's the Chicago Riverwalk or Lakefront Trail, it has more than enough scenic paths for walking or biking. 

The architecture boat tours offer another glimpse of the iconic skyline from the river perspective. For foodies, Chicago-style deep-dish and the regional cuisines from around the world make this part of the summer a foodie haven. Visit rooftop bars and jazz clubs to make your summer nights unforgettable.

 

 

 

  8. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park, located on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, is one of the best places in the U.S. to visit in August. The warm weather, the warm crisp ocean air, and the lush deep greens all set the stage for a perfect outdoor experience. Acadia offers a rare opportunity for a mix of rugged coastline, lush granite peaks, and a vast array of forest trails, all amid the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. 

 

August also means that visitors can take advantage of hiking the regal Cadillac Mountain Trail, which is rewarding for those willing to wake up early to be one of the first to see the sunrise in the U.S. of the day. Biking the historic carriage roads is also a favorite of visitors, where competitors can bike long distances in rugged routes of forest and asphalt alongside extraordinarily clear lakes.

 

Visitors can lie on Sand Beach, check out the tidepools at low tide, or kayak around Jordan Pond in a kayak. East of the park is the quintessential coastal town of Bar Harbor, which serves up fresh seafood cuisine, shops, and harbor cruises.

 

 

 

  9. San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands, located off the coast of Washington State, are a peaceful retreat during the summer. August is the best month to visit because it typically has sunny weather and calm seas.

August is also the best month for whales, especially orcas, and Friday Harbor has daily tours. 

You can also kayak around the sheltered coves around the islands or do a scenic ferry ride between San Juan, Orcas, and Lopez Islands. A great modern hiking trail in Lime Kiln Point State Park has ocean views and is a good option for picnicking.

You will also find the idyllic islands have many art galleries, farm-to-table dining, and warm communities. 

 

 

 

  10. Alaska

August signals the end of a brief but extraordinary summer in Alaska. It is one of the better months to experience the wild beauty of the state because the days are still long and wildlife sightings are prolific. 

 

A glacier cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park or a ride on the scenic train from Anchorage to Denali will open the door to adventure. Denali National Park is an exceptional highlight, where travelers can see North America’s highest peak and its inhabitants, including bears, moose, and caribou. 

 

Hiking, salmon fishing, and flightseeing tours can be added to your outdoor experiences, too! In late August, travelers may see the northern lights during the dark skies of interior Alaska for an unforgettable trip.