11 Awesome Places to Add to Your Summer Bucket List

summer bucket list

Must-See Spots for Your Summer Vacay

Summer is here and so is vacation time! But all the planning, prepping, and packing have to wait until you decide the really exciting part: where are you going? Think hard, because maybe, just maybe, this is the year you finally cross an item off your summer bucket list.

Soooo, where’s your dream trip? Is it an island, a mountain, or a city? Wherever it is, we’ve got you covered with our fave bucket list destinations.

  • Anchorage, AK

    If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the Midnight Sun, then put Anchorage on your summer bucket list. With almost 24 hours of sunlight, mild temps, and clear skies, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the Great Outdoors.

    Pro Tip: Hop on a trolley tour for scenic stops and insider history.

  • Chicago, IL

    You don’t have to be a Cubs fan to enjoy Chi-town in the summer, but it certainly helps! Join the “Bleacher Creatures” for some rowdy outfield fun, or catch a rooftop game for a truly unique experience.

    Not an MLB fan? Catch up on your tan on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan.

  • Cocoa Beach, FL

    This bustling beach town is perfect for soaking up sunshine and riding waves. Or, take off on a deep-sea fishing adventure. After sunset, oceanfront cafes and jazz clubs make for a vibrant nightlife.

    Cocoa Beach is also home to Kennedy Space Center and its iconic “Rocket Garden,” a can’t-miss for space fans.

  • Glacier National Park, MT

    You could see snow in Glacier National Park as late as mid-June, but the trails are open for scenic hiking. Head over to the shaded Trail of the Cedars on especially warm and sunny days.

    Or hit the waterways, where you’ll find everything from heart-thumping rapids to serene kayaking.

  • Grand Canyon, AZ

    It’s easy to see why the Grand Canyon is on so many summer bucket lists. The amazingly colorful canyon is simply unequaled. And with so many scenic hiking trails, you’ll get some of the best views simply by walking down the canyon.

    Just be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen!

  • Lake of the Ozarks, MO

    Camping or glamping, take your pick! You’ll find options ranging from luxury resorts to tent campgrounds in this popular rec area. The multiple rivers, streams, and springs are ideal for canoeing, kayaking, or just floating lazily in an inner tube.

    When you’re ready to dry off, you’ll find arcades, mini-golf, go-karts, and more.

  • Mackinac Island, MI

    On Mackinac Island, old-time charm rules and motor vehicles are banned. Fill your day with carriage rides, walking tours, and one-of-a-kind golf courses. The island is also known for its fudge shops, so go ahead and pick up a sweet souvenir.

    Pro Tip: Rent a bike to see all the sights on the island.

  • Maui, HI

    Surf lessons in the morning, luaus at night. If that sounds like your perfect vacay, head to Maui. Water activities are the biggest draw to the island: surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more.

    But one of our top recommendations is actually a drive: the Road to Hana. The 52 twisting miles take you through the rainforest and past waterfalls, with stunning views of Maui’s coastline.

  • Newport, RI

    Newport is one of our favorite places to play tourist. The city is rich with culture and history, which you can see on mansion tours, boat tours, and or even a foodie tour.

    The waterfront city has been a popular sailing destination for decades. Whether you man the sails or simply relax in the ocean breeze is up to you!

  • Orange County, CA

    Forget about the real housewives. If you’re vacationing with kids, the OC is one of the most family-friendly parts of the state. After all, it’s home to both Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm.

    Orange County also has some of the best beaches in the country, including world-famous Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach.

  • Portland, OR

    If relaxing in nature is your idea of the perfect vacation, add Portland to your summer bucket list. With 10,000 acres of public parks and a prime location at the foot of Mt. Hood, you’ll want to spend all your time outdoors.

    Pro Tip: Make a pit stop at the original Voodoo Donuts!

Ready to pick your next vacation spot? You can’t go wrong at any of these awesome bucket list destinations. You guys might even want to bookmark this list; you’ve got 11 summer vacation ideas here, boom!

And if you really want to make your vacay memorable, eliminate luggage hassles by shipping your stuff to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. Instead of waiting around baggage claim and then having to drop off your bags, you can just go straight to making those bucket list memories!

Posted in Destinations