5 Amazing Summer Travel Bucket List Destinations

Awesome places = great times

There are tons of summer bucket list ideas: going to a music festival, hosting an epic BBQ, going tiki bar-hopping. Fun? Sure. But if you love vacations (and who doesn’t?) those lists are all missing one thing: bucket list destinations. You know, those places that’ll pretty much guarantee that you’ll have an absolutely amazing vacay!

Not sure where to go? Pick your fave activity, and we’ve got the place for you! Check out our suggestions for your next summer getaway.

• Beach: Cape Cod, MA

  Summer = beach time!

  If you just want to be near the water, Cape Cod’s vast seashore offers a whopping 40 miles of pristine, sandy beaches. Spend your vacay enjoying beach classics such as paddle boarding, snorkeling, building sandcastles, or just catching up on your beach reads.

  But what really makes this beach town one of our bucket list destinations are the “quintessential Cape Cod” activities. From climbing lighthouses to biking the Cape Cod Rail Trail to whale watching, the Cape is a true delight!

  Best Summer Travel Bucket List Destination for: being wowed by a whale

• Big City: Chicago, IL

  We love Chicago. But its winters? Not so much!

  Unlike some sweltering cities (we see you, NYC heat waves!), summer is a fantastic time to visit the Windy City! The city collectively spends the warm months outdoors: festivals, concerts, and events all head outside when the weather turns nice. And should we even mention the baseball games at Wrigley Field?

  But if you think Chicago offers city-based fun, think again! Located on Lake Michigan, Chicago is actually home to miles of sandy lakefront shoreline. Make like the locals, and head to North Beach for tons of aquatic recreation options.

  Best Summer Travel Bucket List Destination for: combining sea and city

• Family Time: Hilton Head, SC

  Traveling with kids? Then this idyllic vacation destination is an excellent choice!

  Although it’s right on the Atlantic, Hilton Head’s curvy coastline and shallow waters keep the waves to a minimum. While the older kids try their hand at surfing or boogie boarding, the tidal pools will keep little ones busy for hours.

  If the kids (or you!) need to dry out, head “next door” to Harbour Town. This cute waterfront resort is filled with trendy boutiques, waterfront restaurants, and a lighthouse with stunning views of the marina.

  Best Summer Travel Bucket List Destination for: all-ages attractions and activities.

• Mountains: Bend, OR

  Stunning views, mountain village charm, and top-notch breweries? It’s no surprise that Bend is one of our bucket list destinations!

  Bend is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream vacay spot. The surrounding Deschutes National Forest offers endless adventures and stunning natural beauty. Or explore the Deschutes River, where activities range from leisurely floats to thrilling whitewater rafting trips.

  Afterward, cool off at one of the city’s many breweries, which have earned it the nickname of “Beer Town, USA.” Bend’s vibrant craft beer scene includes award-winning local breweries and an impressive selection of beer styles and flavors.

  Best Summer Travel Bucket List Destination for: cold brews and mountain views

• Theme Parks: Orlando, FL

  Was there ever any doubt? If you want to hit theme parks on summer vacay, the city known as “The House of the Mouse” is a shoo-in!

  Disney dominates Orlando’s landscape. Theme parks, water parks… you name it, and it’s been Disney-fied! Even the local shops and restaurants are on-theme.

  But if you’re looking for absolutely insane thrill rides, skip Disney and check out Universal Studios’ two theme parks. Their roller coasters are faster, steeper, and go through multiple twists, turns, and flips.

  Best Summer Travel Bucket List Destination for: screaming yourself hoarse on roller coasters

If you’re ready for an epic summer vacation, one of these bucket list destinations will surely give you the amazing time you’re looking for!

And to make your summer trip even more amazing, ship your stuff to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. We’ll get all of your vacay gear to your final destination, so all you have to do is hop off the plane and start having fun. Easy-peasy, vacation-squeezey!