Top 10 US Destinations for August: A Guide for Domestic Travelers

As summer peaks, August is the perfect time for domestic travelers to explore some of the best destinations the United States has to offer. Whether you’re seeking beach vibes, mountain escapes, or vibrant city life, here are the top ten US destinations for August, complete with where to stay, what to do, and estimated costs.

1. Maui, Hawaii

• Where to Stay:

• Wailea Beach Resort – Luxury stay with ocean views, around $600-$800 per night.

• Maui Coast Hotel – A more budget-friendly option in Kihei, around $250-$350 per night.

• Where to Go:

• Haleakalā National Park – Sunrise views from the summit.

• Road to Hana – Scenic drive with waterfalls and lush greenery.

• Ka’anapali Beach – Perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing.

• Estimated Prices:

• Hotel: $250-$800 per night.

• Attractions: Most natural sites are free, but guided tours can range from $50-$150.

2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

• Where to Stay:

• Old Faithful Inn – Historic lodge inside the park, around $300-$500 per night.

• West Yellowstone Hotels – Outside the park, around $150-$300 per night.

• Where to Go:

• Old Faithful – Iconic geyser that erupts regularly.

• Grand Prismatic Spring – The park’s largest hot spring with vibrant colors.

• Lamar Valley – Known for wildlife spotting, including bison and bears.

• Estimated Prices:

• Hotel: $150-$500 per night.

• Attractions: Park entrance fee is $35 per vehicle for 7 days.

3. San Diego, California

• Where to Stay:

• Hotel del Coronado – A beachfront luxury resort, around $400-$600 per night.

• Gaslamp Quarter Hotels – Mid-range options in a lively downtown area, around $200-$300 per night.

• Where to Go:

• Balboa Park – Museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo.

• La Jolla Cove – Coastal views, sea caves, and seals.

• Gaslamp Quarter – Nightlife, dining, and entertainment.

• Estimated Prices:

• Hotel: $200-$600 per night.

• Attractions: San Diego Zoo tickets are around $65 for adults.

4. Nashville, Tennessee

• Where to Stay:

• The Hermitage Hotel – Historic luxury in downtown, around $400-$600 per night.

• The Westin Nashville – Modern, mid-range option, around $250-$400 per night.

• Where to Go:

• Country Music Hall of Fame – Dive into Nashville’s musical heritage.

• Broadway – Lined with honky-tonks, live music, and bars.

• The Parthenon – A full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple.

• Estimated Prices:

• Hotel: $250-$600 per night.

• Attractions: Museum tickets around $25-$30.

5. Asheville, North Carolina

• Where to Stay:

• The Omni Grove Park Inn – Mountain views and historic charm, around $400-$600 per night.

• Downtown Boutique Hotels – Cozy stays with local flair, around $150-$300 per night.

• Where to Go:

• Biltmore Estate – Explore the largest privately-owned house in the US.

• Blue Ridge Parkway – Scenic drives and hiking trails.

• Downtown Asheville – Art galleries, breweries, and live music.

• Estimated Prices:

• Hotel: $150-$600 per night.

• Attractions: Biltmore Estate tickets around $75.

6. Charleston, South Carolina

• Where to Stay:

• The Dewberry – Luxury downtown hotel, around $400-$600 per night.

• Historic Inns – Quaint, charming stays in the heart of the city, around $200-$300 per night.

• Where to Go:

• Historic District – Cobblestone streets, historic homes, and gardens.

• Folly Beach – Relaxed beach town vibes just a short drive away.

• Fort Sumter – Site of the Civil War’s first shots.

• Estimated Prices:

• Hotel: $200-$600 per night.

• Attractions: Historic tours around $25-$50.

7. Glacier National Park, Montana

• Where to Stay:

• Many Glacier Hotel – Stunning lake views, around $300-$450 per night.

• Lodges in West Glacier – More affordable options, around $150-$300 per night.

• Where to Go:

• Going-to-the-Sun Road – Iconic drive through the park.

• Lake McDonald – Kayaking and beautiful mountain reflections.

• Grinnell Glacier – A challenging hike to one of the park’s most famous glaciers.

• Estimated Prices:

• Hotel: $150-$450 per night.

• Attractions: Park entrance fee is $35 per vehicle for 7 days.

8. Portland, Maine

• Where to Stay:

• The Press Hotel – Modern luxury in a historic building, around $350-$500 per night.

• Old Port Hotels – Quaint, mid-range stays, around $150-$300 per night.

• Where to Go:

• Old Port District – Cobblestone streets, shops, and seafood restaurants.

• Portland Head Light – One of the most photographed lighthouses in the country.

• Casco Bay – Take a ferry ride to explore the nearby islands.

• Estimated Prices:

• Hotel: $150-$500 per night.

• Attractions: Ferry rides around $20-$40.

**9. Savannah, Georgia

• Where to Stay:

• Perry Lane Hotel – Luxury stay in the historic district, around $400-$600 per night.

• Historic Inns – Romantic, charming options around $200-$300 per night.

• Where to Go:

• Forsyth Park – Iconic fountain and beautiful green space.

• River Street – Cobblestone street with shops, dining, and views of the Savannah River.

• Historic District – Explore the city’s rich history and well-preserved architecture.

• Estimated Prices:

• Hotel: $200-$600 per night.

• Attractions: Historic tours around $25-$50.

10. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

• Where to Stay:

• Chatham Bars Inn – Oceanfront luxury, around $500-$700 per night.

• Cape Cod Inns and B&Bs – Quaint, mid-range options, around $200-$350 per night.

• Where to Go:

• Cape Cod National Seashore – Miles of sandy beaches and dunes.

• Provincetown – Art galleries, whale watching, and vibrant culture.

• Hyannis – Visit the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum and stroll along the harbor.

• Estimated Prices:

• Hotel: $200-$700 per night.

• Attractions: Whale watching tours around $60-$100.

Conclusion:

These top US destinations offer something special for August travelers, whether you’re looking for adventure in the great outdoors, a cultural escape, or a beachside retreat. With options ranging from luxury to budget-friendly, these destinations are perfect for making the most of your summer travels.

This article provides domestic travelers with a comprehensive guide to the top destinations for August, complete with accommodation options, activities, and estimated costs.