Some people wait for warm weather all year long because it's their happy place. Hot weather, scorching sun, humidity – this is the environment in which they thrive. But, for others, those sweaty months of summer are hellish, best spent indoors with air conditioning, popsicles and no sign of sunshine. If your ideal summer vacation involves going somewhere that's not summer, you'll want to check out these cool-weather summer travel ideas, because for many people, the cold of the Arctic beats the breeze of the tropics. Let’s be honest, humidity isn’t everyone’s best friend.
Even if you love summer, we have a list of cool places to visit just in case the hot weather becomes too much for even the most ardent of fans. If you need another reason to consider a cooler vacation spot, be aware that many places with lower average temperatures often have a very special and unique "summer," which is an attraction in itself. Whether your destination is thawing because the warmest season is still much colder than our summers, or the place you're traveling to is experiencing the opposite season, you'll want to know what to expect. Here, I list some epic summer vacation spots that won’t remind you of summer at all:
Alaska
Take a trip (or cruise) to Alaska this summer. This ecologically diverse wonderland is lush, green, blooming with flowers and colorful in the summer, but it's never too hot. What's more, if you need to cool off, you're never too far from the fjords. Fly to Juneau, then connect to Anchorage, Skagway, Ketchikan and Fairbanks. Go hiking, whale watching, boating, fishing, and enjoy sunny skies and a cool average temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
banff canada
Head to Banff National Park and marvel at Lake Louise, as it's as beautiful in person as it is in photos. Kayak, canoe, hike, dine, and marvel at this sanctuary of natural wonders. Temperatures never rise above 73 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the summer in Alberta, Canada, so you can stay cool while enjoying the sunshine.
Colorado
Swim, shop, hike, boat, sightsee, attend sporting events, music festivals and live your best life in Boulder, Colorado this summer. Whatever you do, don't forget to float down Boulder Creek. Then, when you've had enough of the mildly warm weather, head to Breckenridge, Colorado (just less than two hours away), where temperatures are in the mid-to-low 60s and the sun is mild and completely tolerable.
Portland, Maine
This coastal city combines the best of two worlds: a nautical nature paradise and a gourmet haven. Portland, Maine has recently been dubbed the food capital of the country, so if outdoor adventures aren't your thing, you can easily plan a restaurant and shopping trip. If you do want to spend time outdoors, you're always just minutes from the beach or hiking trails. Let’s be honest, the low humidity will win you over and you may never want to leave.
Iceland
Sure, the Northern Lights are cool, but have you ever experienced endless sunshine, sunsets that last for hours, and a consistent average temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit? Summer is hands down the best time to visit Iceland, with plenty of adventure activities available thanks to the extra sunshine.
Lake Tahoe, California
If you want to spend time outdoors in the water and sun, but don't want to melt or deal with beach crowds, head to Lake Tahoe. This adventure wonderland is perfect for travelers who love the outdoors and soaking up the sun but don’t want to break a sweat.
New Zealand
Just in time for your summer vacation, New Zealand is cooling down. If beach life isn't your thing, head to New Zealand during the colder months for effortless hiking and boating - you can even ski in the northern regions! It's a quiet tourist season, which means you can get great deals on tickets and accommodation, too.
Melbourne, Australia
Head to Melbourne for some shopping and sightseeing, then when you're ready for some activities and a real break from the summer heat, head to Falls Creek in the Australian Alps, home to some of the most epic ski resorts. By being epic, I could be incredibly beautiful. Enjoy a fulfilling winter vacation during the summer vacation.
Greenland
This summer, get away from the hustle and bustle and head to Greenland to experience its “greenest”. If you’re looking for a low-key, nature-friendly summer vacation, check out some of the super affordable Greenland rentals on Airbnb. Stay in remote fishing villages, stay in friendly small towns, or travel around the countryside, hiking, boating and exploring its wild charm.
