If you haven’t gotten around to booking or even planning that summer vacay yet, don’t fret; I’ve got you covered. Thanks to the help of a few trusty services like Google, last-minute trips can be made not only affordably but easily. Sites like Google Flights help you plan your entire trip, while Momondo, SkySkanner and FareCompare allow you to set fare alerts and compare deals before you even book. The U.S. offers some extremely diverse and imminently explore-able places. I’ve pulled together my top picks for the ultimate American summer vacation.
Summer in the City // Destination: New York City
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, New York City residents make a mass exodus to the cooler climates of the nearby cities like the Hamptons and lake towns upstate, utilizing the island to the collection of tourists looking to get in on the action. Yes, it will be hot, and, yes, it WILL be a bit smelly, but what no New Yorker will tell you is that the City in the summertime is absolutely magical. From getting a reservation at one of the city’s most coveted restaurants to snagging choice theater seats to the plethora of Broadway shows, New York City is a tourist’s paradise—so long as you do it right.
Beach Getaway // Destination: St. Petersburg/Clearwater, Florida
If your ideal summer vacay includes reading a lot and much needed R&R by the beach, then look no further than the gorgeous beaches of St. Petersburg, Florida. With a surplus of arts, food and culture, St. Petersburg has got it all. St. Petersburg, on Florida’s Gulf Coast, often goes overlooked in favor of its flashier neighbors like Orlando and Miami. Clearwater Beach boasts a slower summer season making this one of the most desirable summer getaways. So go ahead, girl… pack your bag!
All-American Road Trip // Destination: Pacific Coast Highway
While there’s certainly no shortage of amazing American routes, a drive along the Pacific Coast should be considered a rite of passage. Starting from San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, to the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles and ending in San Diego’s glitzy downtown Gaslamp Quarter, you won’t find a drive with more awe-inspiring coastal views, seaside villages, rugged forest and vast terrain as the drive down the Pacific Coast.
Take a Cruise // Destination: Virgin Islands
While many travelers book cruises months in advance, many times the best deals land 60 to 90 days before a ship’s departure, when lines are scrambling to fill those last remaining cabins. So, gather your girl group, and head to the U.S. Virgin Islands for an ample number of excursions, delicious restaurants and even better shopping destinations.