Festival season continues in New Orleans as we barrel into summer with rising heat and humidity. But summer temps can’t stop this city from celebrating. Some of the best things to do in New Orleans in June—like the Creole Tomato Festival—are outdoors, but there are plenty of ways to stay cool, from catching river breezes to enjoying a snoball to taking a dip in a hotel pool. While crawfish season might be winding down, the food scene stays hot. The iconic dining scene is enhanced in June by the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience and Restaurant Week.

Otherwise, there are plenty of things to do in New Orleans to feel the city’s vibe. New Orleans’ music calendar is packed, so you can dance the night away to whatever you’re into, from jazz, blues and brass to funk, soul or hip-hop. History buffs will find plenty of stories throughout the city, from museums and historic homes to cemeteries and neighborhoods. The unique art and architecture of New Orleans is a feast for the eyes, and outdoor activities abound. Here are some of the best things to do in New Orleans to soak up the culture and flavors of the city.

This guide was updated by New Orleans-based writer Gerrish Lopez. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

RECOMMENDED: Where to stay in New Orleans

RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in New Orleans

Sometimes, when we venture into new cities, we crave the exhilarating sensation of discovering a place to call our own for a few days. We long for the freedom to explore and immerse ourselves in a whole new world—solo! So, leave behind the mundane chores and perhaps even your significant other (but don’t forget to remind them about the trash needing to be taken out with a friendly post-it note), because you’re officially off duty.

When you arrive in the vibrant city of New Orleans, there are just a couple of rules to keep in mind:

Always keep your mind open, as adventure awaits around every corner!

Be sure to pack your walking shoes–and be ready to treat yourself to the many culinary treasures and indulgences of the city.

As a friendly reminder, this list is meant to serve as a source of inspiration for your journey through the city. However, it’s important to make this trip your own and remember that the incredible opportunities about to be mentioned are just the icing on the cake. There are countless layers waiting to be discovered, explored, and indulged in throughout New Orleans!

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The beauty of a mother-daughter trip lies in its power to connect the two of you on a level that might never be possible at home, even if you still live under one roof. “My daughter and I had some our best conversations ever on a trip we took without the rest of the family,” said a Good Housekeeping editor who treated her college-age daughter to a long weekend at an all-inclusive wellness retreat in Mexico. “I think the jungle and the peacefulness opened her up in a new way.”

Whether you’re the mom bringing your girl or the daughter whisking away your mom, you’ll find your next “just the two of us” trip thanks to these tried-and-true locale suggestions from me and the rest of the Good Housekeeping team. We’ve been evaluating destinations all year long for the upcoming Travel Awards and have included below our favorite mother-daughter photos from our own adventures.

Why you’ll love it: Is a trip to Lubbock a left-field selection as far as cheap family vacations go? It sure is, but Lubbock is a surprisingly fun hub of art, music, theater and mid-century architecture. You’ll love wandering around downtown and looking up at the stunning buildings, as well as popping into stellar restaurants like The Nicolett or sampling the local wineries to visit. Enjoy a show at the glittering new Buddy Holly Performing Arts Center—Lubbock was his home.

Budget tip: This west Texas town is thriving, thanks to one of the most spectacular public art collections found anywhere on earth. Massive sculptures are scattered all over Texas Tech University’s campus. Tours are free and involve riding around in a cute trolley, so even your little ones will be in heaven. To get the kids even more on board, promise them an hour or two at Prairie Dog Town. This public park is every bit as fun (and as literal) as the name suggests. Bring some bread or carrots and feed the little cuties for free.

How to get there: Lubbock can feel like it’s in the middle of nowhere, but the west Texas city is just a five-hour drive from Dallas. If you’d prefer to fly, Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport is just 15 minutes from downtown.

Where to stay: Families will love the Cotton Court Hotel on Broadway. The grassy courtyard is abuzz with activity every night—multiple fire pits, rocking chairs, live music, a bar and a pool.

Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this piece on cheap family vacations, writer Jeff Bogle tapped his experience as a travel journalist and past contributor for Travel + Leisure. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Before summer flies by, it’s time to think about ending the season with travel. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a faraway adventure, or a family road trip, a change of scenery creates lasting memories. For some, a beach is the only way to go, but we have ideas for mountains, small towns, cities, and even skiing. Here are our suggestions for an August vacation.

Providence, Rhode Island

Skyscrapers in downtown Providence, Rhode Island. DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

Comfortable weather in the low 80s, boating, exceptional seafood, and top restaurants make Providence a perfect August destination. New England’s largest film festival, the Rhode Island International Film Festival, will be held in several Providence venues, including the Providence Performing Arts Center. Summer also brings the Providence Flea Markets, where shoppers can find vintage treasures, art, and food every Sunday. Food Truck Fridays at Roger Williams Park Zoo’s Carousel Village feature local cuisine, live music, and family-friendly fun. Visitors can see the Return of the Dinosaurs exhibit at Roger Williams Park Zoo until Aug. 10, and they can enjoy animal encounters throughout the month. On Saturdays, Al Fresco on the Hill gives diners the opportunity to dine under the stars and twinkling lights on Federal Hill, the city’s historic “Little Italy.”

Where to Stay: The city offers a variety of places to stay. The Beatrice is conveniently located downtown and is home to the excellent Bellini Providence Restaurant.

Maine

Homes on the coast of Portland, Maine. Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Maine’s rugged coastline, beaches, quaint towns, wild blueberries, and cool summer breezes are just a few reasons to consider a New England August vacation. From Acadia National Park’s 47,000 acres of forests, granite peaks, and wildlife to world-class summer theater at Ogunquit Playhouse, Maine offers many ways to enjoy August. In Kennebunkport, famed for historic mansions, lobster shacks, boating, and shopping in charming boutiques, visitors will find sandy beaches for relaxing afternoons. For a more active way to spend a day, there’s hiking, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and shopping for bargains in Portland. Take young travelers to the Children’s Museum or browse the exhibits at the Portland Museum of Art.

Where to Stay: From glamping to luxury hotels, Travel + Leisure has Maine recommendations covered, including Quisiana, an adult summer camp-style resort. In Portland, the boutique Longfellow is a new option, or choose a luxury apartment-style loft at The Docents Collection. In York, there’s The Viewpoint Hotel, or stay at a restored castle, Norumbega. White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection is a landmark in Kennebunk, and The Asticou, a historic coastal hotel, reopens in June after a major renovation. Other favorites include The Dunes on the Waterfront in Ogunquit, Salt Cottages in Bar Harbor, or the unique hobbit homes and treehouses at Littlefield Retreat in Springvale.

Santa Barbara, California

A sunset over a Santa Barbara beach. viavado/Getty Images

This lovely city on California’s Central Coast, known as the American Riviera for its mild weather, stunning beaches, and elegant atmosphere, boasts over 100 miles of Pacific shoreline. My visits have included lazy beach afternoons, strolls around downtown, easy hikes, boat rides, wine tastings, and checking out local restaurants. On one trip, I toured Lotusland, a fascinating botanical garden, and visited the MOXI, one of the city’s many museums. August weather is mild, and festivals are more reason to visit Santa Barbara during late summer. Old Spanish Days (July 30-Aug. 3) include horse shows and rodeos, markets, entertainment, food, and a children’s parade. August is Santa Barbara’s official Pride Month, and the Aug. 23 Pacific Pride Festival is a celebration with all-day entertainment, food trucks, and a beer garden.

Where to Stay: I loved the seclusion and gardens of El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel and the Club experience at Ritz-Carlton Bacara during a recent visit. In Montecito, Rosewood Miramar Beach offers a stunning beachfront location. San Ysidro Ranch is a gorgeous boutique hotel offering 38 cottages set among lush landscaped gardens. The Hotel Californian is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025.

Seattle, Washington

A crowd watching a sunset in Seattle’s Gas Works Park. Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Cool temperatures in the 70s and dry weather make August a great time to visit Seattle. Seafair, the city’s multi-week summer festival opens June 29 and includes July 4 fireworks, Fleet Week, and the Weekend Festival (Aug. 1-3), with parades, cruises, food, entertainment, and the Blue Angels Walkdown, a thrilling up-close experience. August weather is perfect for being outdoors, boating on Puget Sound, checking the view from the top of the Space Needle, or catching a Seattle Mariners baseball game or Seattle Sounders soccer match. Pack a picnic and plan a day at one of Seattle’s many parks, including an art walk through Olympic Sculpture Park. Pike Place Market is always a favorite stop in Seattle, with the freshest seafood, produce, flowers, crafts, restaurants, and entertainment.

Where to Stay: T+L readers voted for their five favorite Seattle hotels in the 2024 World’s Best Awards, and we’ve compiled a list of the best hotels in Seattle. The Lotte Hotel Seattle, The Edgewater, Hotel 1000, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and Hotel Max are additional options.

Pennsylvania

Bushkill Falls in the Poconos of Pennsylvania. Nicholas Schmidt/Travel + Leisure

Looking for a summer vacation with loads of outdoor activities, nature, and amusement parks—with some American history lessons thrown in? Pennsylvania offers forests, lakes, mountains, and state parks for camping, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Boating, kayaking, and whitewater rafting on the state’s 86,000 miles of rivers and streams and more than 2,000 lakes are fun ways to keep cool. There’s hiking and biking along rail trails, stargazing away from city lights, and famous sights like Philadelphia’s Independence Hall, Gettysburg’s historic battlefields, Lancaster’s Amish Country, and Hershey’s amusement park and Chocolate World. While the entire state is replete with historical sites, a visit to Philadelphia is an opportunity to see the Liberty Bell, explore the Museum of the American Revolution, and grab a selfie by the Rocky statue or the LOVE sculpture.

Where to Stay: Nemacolin topped the list of T+L readers’ favorite Mid-Atlantic resorts in the 2024 World’s Best Awards. Omni Bedford Springs Resort also made the list.

Nebraska

Prairie schooners at Mitchell Pass in Nebraska. Posnov/Getty Images

If a road trip to a place with a bit of cowboy style, history, rivers, natural beauty, and crowd-free national parks sounds appealing, put the state of Nebraska on your summer itinerary. The annual Nebraska State Fair is set for Aug. 22-Sept. 1, kicking off with a marathon and a variety of races, and continuing with entertainment, agriculture exhibits, livestock shows, and lots to eat. Stargazing fans will enjoy a stop at Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area, a designated Dark Sky destination, where the annual Nebraska Star Party (July 20-25) takes place. Nebraska’s Old West Balloon Fest will fill the skies with colorful hot air balloons from Aug. 14-17, and summer festivals also include Columbus Days (Aug. 8-11) and Nebraska’s Big Rodeo (July 23-26). There are plenty of on-the-water activities in this landlocked state, with lakes, rivers, streams, and unique experiences like “tanking” and hydrofoil surfing.

Where to Stay: Lean into cowboy style at Heritage Guest Ranch, a National Natural Landmark, or choose from several other guest ranches in the state.

Boise, Idaho

Downtown Boise, Idaho. Mitch Diamond/Getty Images

August is warm and dry in Boise, with temperatures reaching the high 80s, so being outdoors, especially near some cool water, is the way to enjoy the area. The Boise River flows through the city, and locals and visitors can float along the mountain-chilled water from late June through August, covering about six miles aboard rafts, tubes, or inflatable kayaks, conveniently available for rent. Boise has one of the largest Basque communities in the world, and from July 29-Aug. 3, the Jaialdi Festival, held every five years, will celebrate the Basque culture and heritage with food, dance, traditional farm sports competitions, markets, and performances of traditional and contemporary Basque music. The Idaho Shakespeare Festival returns to the Amphitheater for summer, and the Boise Soul Food Festival is planned for Aug. 9. The Western Idaho Fair, from Aug. 15-24, highlights Idaho’s agriculture, livestock, arts, and culture with concerts, carnival rides, food, and entertainment. In the state known for potatoes, visitors will undoubtedly find plenty at the fair, and they can also enjoy a potato-themed trip along the Big Potato Loop Trail.

Where to Stay: A variety of hotels are available in the walkable downtown area, including the boutique Inn at 500 Capitol.

Buffalo, New York

Cars in downtown Buffalo, New York. Jacek_Sopotnicki/Getty Images

Celebrating its famed culinary creativity and history in August, Buffalo will welcome more than 50,000 visitors to the 24th annual National Buffalo Wing Festival (Aug. 30-31) when it returns to downtown’s Sahlen Field. The festival, dubbed the “World Series of Wings,” will feature a variety of creative takes on classic Buffalo wings as well as live music and contests like the Chicken Wing Eating Championship, Amateur Creative Sauce contest, and children’s wing costume pageant. While you’re in town, visit the Buffalo AKG Art Museum or the Underground Railroad Heritage Center. The Erie Canal turns 200 this year, and summer is an opportunity to see the majestic Seneca Chief, a replica of the first boat to travel the full length of the Erie Canal in 1825, before it sets sail for its Bicentennial Voyage in September, making 28 stops along the way before arriving in NYC on Oct. 26. Just 20 miles away, Niagara Falls is a must-see.

Where to Stay: Places to stay range from campgrounds to hotels. Hotel @The Lafayette was designed by the first American female architect. The Curtiss Hotel is a five-star boutique hotel built in a historic landmark. The Buffalo Marriott at LECOM Harborcenter is near Lake Erie and the Erie Canal. The Richardson Hotel Buffalo, a National Historic Landmark, was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

A sunset over downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico. Sean Pavone/Getty Images

August is a great time to be in Santa Fe, with pleasant weather in the low 80s and lots to do. The Santa Fe Indian Market (Aug. 16-17), now in its 103rd year, is the largest juried Native art market in the world, bringing together 1,000 artists from 100 tribal communities. Visitors can shop for jewelry, pottery, paintings, sculpture, photography, carvings, textiles, beadwork, and basketry. A summer evening in the stunning open-air theater at the Santa Fe Opera to see “Rigoletto” remains one of my favorite memories of a visit to the city. Although I missed it by a few days, I’m determined to plan my next trip to Santa Fe around the Burning of Zozobra, an annual ritual of renewal when a 100-foot tall effigy, stuffed with paper “glooms” is set on fire as onlookers celebrate the burning of their fears and disappointments (Aug. 29). Food festival fans may want to visit in September for the Wine & Chile Fiesta.

Where to Stay: In the 2024 World’s Best Awards, T+L readers voted for their favorite Santa Fe hotels, and The Inn of the Five Graces topped the list for the second year in a row. Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection, is a gorgeous mountain resort that manages to be both rustic and luxurious. La Fonda on the Plaza is the only hotel in Santa Fe’s historic plaza. Nearby, The Washington Inn is set to open this summer.

Vail, Colorado

A hiker on a trail in Vail, Colorado. krblokhin/Getty Images

This popular winter destination is great in summer as well, when wildflowers are blooming and visitors can take the Eagle Bahn Gondola and Gondola One to the top of the mountain for spectacular views. Mountain bikers head for the trails, and they can have their bikes hauled up on the gondolas. At the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, summer shows include comedy, concerts, dance, and classical music. There’s golf, fly fishing, hiking, and the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, and young visitors will love the zipline, bungee trampoline, tubing, and mini golf available with the Adventure Pass. Vail Village offers pedestrian-friendly streets, luxury boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, all surrounded by stunning mountain views.

Where to Stay: T+L readers placed the Grand Hyatt Vail and Sonnenalp Vail on their list of favorite Colorado resorts in the 2024 World’s Best Awards. Four Seasons Resort & Residences, The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort, Antlers at Vail, and vacation homes from East West Hospitality are excellent lodging options.

West Virginia

The New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia. Different_Brian/Getty Images

Scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, hometown-style events, country roads, small towns, and pleasant weather describe West Virginia in summer. The 100th State Fair of West Virginia will be held from Aug. 7-16 in Lewisburg, celebrating the region’s culture with live music, agricultural exhibits, livestock competitions, carnival rides, food contests, and concerts featuring popular performers. While you’re in town, spend some time strolling among Lewisburg’s boutiques, antique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Outdoor adventures include riding the new 12-mile, round-trip railbike, boating on Summersville Lake, or exploring New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. For a relaxing way to enjoy West Virginia’s beauty, hop aboard a train for a scenic ride. If your summer visit to West Virginia confirms that it’s “almost heaven,” consider a return trip in autumn when the colorful foliage becomes the main attraction.

Where to Stay: Enjoy the outdoors in luxury with a glamping experience. For visitors heading to the state fair, there’s a campground with full RV hookups as well as nearby accommodations at The Schoolhouse Hotel and General Lewis Inn. For a unique stay, try and get a reservation at the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower.

Chile

Sand dunes in Chile’s Atacama Desert. Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

At about 2,670 miles from north to south, Chile offers a variety of climates in August (which is mid-winter in the Southern Hemisphere). Santiago, Chile’s capital and largest city, is located in the central part of the country. It’s a beautiful city to explore, and it’s just 100 miles or so from ski resorts, making it a perfect destination for summer travelers who can’t wait for the snow season up north. Before heading to the slopes, visitors can spend some time touring Santiago’s colonial architecture in Plaza de Armas, shopping and dining at the Mercado Central, hiking to the top of Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic views, or taking a side trip to Chile’s nearby wine country. For a longer vacation in Chile, there’s superb stargazing in the dark cloudless skies of the Atacama Desert (about 800 miles north) and adventure travel in Patagonia (about 1,100 miles south).

Where to Stay: T+L’s readers voted for their favorite resorts in South America in the 2024 World’s Best Awards, and the top spot went to newly refurbished Tierra Atacama, with Hotel Casa Real and Tierra Patagonia also making the list. Nayara Alto Atacama is an excellent option, and VIK Chile’s hilltop location offers panoramic views of their vineyard.

Oaxaca, Mexico

A busy plaza in Oaxaca, Mexico. Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

A favorite city of T+L readers, Oaxaca consistently appears on the annual World’s Best Awards list of the best cities in Mexico. In August, the weather is warm and sunny with temperatures in the low 80s and occasional afternoon showers. Considered shoulder season, August is a bit quieter than July, when the annual Guelaguetza festival is held. From tasting mezcal and hot chocolate to surfing and shopping, Oaxaca offers an abundance of things to do for every type of traveler. Visitors shouldn’t miss Oaxaca’s beautiful coast, so a road trip is the ideal way to explore small towns and delicious local dishes.

Where to Stay: We’ve rounded up some of the best hotels in Oaxaca. Casa Yuma is an adults-only boutique retreat on the shores of Puerto Escondido. There’s also Otro Oaxaca Hotel, Casa Silencio, and Casona Sforza.

Paris, France

A crowd launching toy boats on a pond in Paris. Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

Lovely in summer with warm weather and an occasional shower, Paris is a popular destination in August, when you can expect to encounter more visitors than locals. As in many European countries, residents take their summer holidays in August and head for the beach or the countryside for a change of scenery. As long as you’re prepared—with the right clothes, front-of-the-line tickets for museums, a list of things to do, and plans to escape the city’s crowds for a day trip or two—you can enjoy Paris in August. Music fans will be there for Rock en Seine (Aug. 20-24), with five days of performances in the beautiful Domaine National de Saint-Cloud. Paris Jazz Festival concerts continue through August as well. Whether you plan a short visit on your way to another European capital or a longer stay, learn about the city’s neighborhoods and perhaps you’ll find some undiscovered spots for a quiet afternoon.

Where to Stay: T+L readers voted for their favorite Paris hotels in the 2024 World’s Best Awards, and the Mandarin Oriental Paris topped the list. We’ve also rounded up the best places to stay in Paris by neighborhood.

Scotland

Circus Lane in Edinburgh, Scotland. Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Summer is festival time in Scotland, and August concludes the high season with some of the country’s most popular events. From Aug. 1-23, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo showcases the best of the British military with performances. The Edinburgh International Festival, with classical music, opera, dance, and theater, is set for Aug. 1-24. For three weeks starting Aug. 1, Edinburgh Fringe features entertainment including cabaret, children’s shows, comedy, dance, circus, music, and more. The Edinburgh Art Festival (Aug. 7-24), International Book Festival (Aug. 9-24), International Film Festival (Aug. 14-20), and Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival (July 11-20) ensure that there’s truly something for everyone. You can discover Scotland from the sea with St Hilda Sea Adventures on a small-ship cruise with a chef, skipper, and eco-minded coastal adventures. No matter when you visit Scotland, you’ll find world-famous golf courses, castles, history, charming towns, and fascinating cities.

Where to Stay: Gleneagles, renowned for golf, dining, and its gorgeous location, was voted a T+L reader favorite in the 2024 World’s Best Awards. I loved my stay at The Balmoral in Edinburgh a few years back, and Virgin Hotels, The Glasshouse, and The Witchery are more options. In Braemar, The Fife Arms offers exceptional experiences like tours of Balmoral Castle.

South Australia

Port Willunga Beach in Adelaide, Australia. moisseyev/Getty Images

Home to Dark Sky Reserves, the “Wine Country of Australia,” and the country’s newest national park, South Australia offers plenty to see and do. Tens of thousands of giant Australian cuttlefish gather in Upper Spencer Gulf Marine Park for mating, when males vie for female attention by glowing, changing color, and moving gracefully—a thrill for divers, snorkelers, and glass-bottom-boat viewers. South Australia’s major wine regions are known for some of the world’s best wines, with a variety of terroirs and climate areas. Kangaroo Island, often called “Australia’s Galapagos” is another must-see destination in South Australia. The Ghan Expedition, one of the world’s most luxurious train rides, takes guests between Darwin and Adelaide for a four-day adventure through Australia’s vast interior.

Where to Stay: Stay at Sea Dragon Kangaroo Island or South Ocean Lodge with 25 luxurious coastal suites. Sequoia Lodge is a 30-acre, adults-only luxury lodge sitting atop “Koala Mountain” outside of Adelaide. On Eyre Peninsula, there’s Baird Bay Experience seaside villas and Rumi on Louth, a fully off-grid private island with luxury eco-accommodations.

Aruba

A couple sitting on an Aruba beach. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Located about 15 miles from the coast of Venezuela about a three-hour flight from Miami, Aruba is billed as “One Happy Island” for its sunny weather, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Gorgeous beaches, stunning resorts, golf courses, casinos, and great shopping keep visitors happy as well. August’s weather is warm, ideal for snorkeling among coral reefs, sailing, or simply relaxing poolside with a cold beverage. One of the “ABC Islands,” along with Bonaire and Curaçao, Aruba is generally safe from hurricanes during late summer—good news for travelers who have their hearts set on a Caribbean vacation. For a day away from the beach or pool, a visit to Oranjestad or San Nicolas will make shopping fans happy. They’ll find designer boutiques, local crafts, Dutch delicacies, and art galleries.

Where to Stay: We’ve rounded up the best all-inclusive resorts in Aruba so you can plan a stress-free stay.

Anguilla

A pool overlooking the ocean at Zemi Beach House. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Located about 200 miles east of Puerto Rico, Anguilla is a beautiful island with 33 beaches. T+L readers named it one of their favorite Caribbean islands in the 2024 World’s Best Awards. August is part of the low season, so it’s possible to snag some deals on hotels, but check to be sure they’re fully open when you plan to visit. This “secret season” features one of Anguilla’s many celebrations, the Anguilla Summer Festival, with costumed parades, boat races, beach parties, live music, and local food. The warm weather is ideal for hanging around the beach or pool all day and enjoying an al fresco dinner with live music that includes reggae, calypso, soca, and more.

Where to Stay: Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, set on 300+ acres with two miles of beach on Rendezvous Bay, offers an acclaimed golf course, spa, and family activity center. Zemi Beach House, Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel, and Four Seasons Resort & Residences are excellent options, too.

British Columbia, Canada

Aerial view of people walking on the Capilano Suspension Bridge outside of Vancouver, Canada. Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

British Columbia boasts more than 15,000 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline featuring sandy beaches, misty rainforests, whale watching, and fresh air with cool summer breezes. Looking for warmer weather? Head inland to Kamloops, where August brings sunshine to the interior of British Columbia and more than 100 lakes feature boating, fishing, and paddling. On land, there’s mountain biking, hiking, and golf. Nearby, Kelowna offers nearly 40 wineries, and Okanagan Lake is the place to cool off on the beach or visit local farmers’ markets for seasonal fruit and vegetables. Vancouver, British Columbia’s largest city, is a year-round destination with both outdoor activities and sophisticated restaurants and hotels.

Where to Stay: Visitors can combine Vancouver and wine country with a stay at Shangri-La Vancouver. The Fairmont Waterfront is on T+L’s list of best hotels in Vancouver, too.

Canary Islands, Spain

The rocky coastline of Tenerife. Stephanie Pollack/Travel + Leisure

Located off the coast of northwest Africa, this Spanish archipelago consists of diverse islands with beaches, deserts, mountains, and forests. In Tenerife, the largest of the Canaries, August weather is hot and dry, so most visitors head for the shore. Among the many beaches there, family-friendly Playa de las Teresitas features golden sand and calm water, while Playa del Duque is elegant, well-kept, and lined with luxury resorts. Away from the beach, the World Heritage City of San Cristobal de La Laguna offers culture, history, and museums. The island of Lanzarote is home to volcanoes, lava fields, rock formations, and mountains. On Fuerteventura, there’s the unusual “Popcorn Beach,” with coral fossils that resemble the snack. Each of the islands has its own style, and visitors can travel among them by air or boat.

Where to Stay: Paradisus by Meliá Gran Canaria is an all-inclusive, family-friendly resort. On Fuerteventura, Casa Montelongo is an intimate two-suite property. On Tenerife, the Ritz-Carlton, Abama and Bahia del Duque are excellent options.

Kenya

Elephants spotted on a Kenyan safari. Neema Ngelime/Travel + Leisure

August is the dry season in Kenya, and temperatures are mild. It’s the time of the Great Migration, when more than 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya in search of food and water. The migration attracts lions, cheetahs, hyenas, leopards, and other predators, making the dry season an excellent time for a safari. An ideal destination for families as well as adventure seekers, Kenya offers beaches, educational opportunities, and appreciation for protecting animals like Kenya’s rhinos. Kenya safaris are available through a wide variety of travel companies, including Few & Far, andBeyond, Exodus Adventure Travels, Natural Habitat Adventures, Black Tomato, and Red Savannah.

Where to Stay: In Nairobi, there’s Tribe Hotel and JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi. T+L’s 2024 World’s Best Awards for reader-favorite safari lodges included Angama Amboseli and Finch Hattons.