family-friendly travel – Live Laugh Love Do http://livelaughlovedo.com A Super Fun Site Fri, 10 Oct 2025 01:13:48 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 T+L’s Hotel Review of Fawn Bluff in Bute Inlet, British Columbia http://livelaughlovedo.com/travel/tls-hotel-review-of-fawn-bluff-in-bute-inlet-british-columbia/ http://livelaughlovedo.com/travel/tls-hotel-review-of-fawn-bluff-in-bute-inlet-british-columbia/#respond Fri, 10 Oct 2025 01:13:48 +0000 http://livelaughlovedo.com/2025/10/10/tls-hotel-review-of-fawn-bluff-in-bute-inlet-british-columbia/ [ad_1]

Fawn Bluff

  • The remote location means guests will spot bears, deer, and whales regularly, and can only access the property by helicopter or float plane.
  • Fawn Bluff is anchored in regenerative hospitality and works with the Homalco First Nation on social, medical, and artistic programs.
  • Guests have exclusive access to Leask Lake, which can be explored with provided canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and an electric motor-powered detachable wharf.
  • Bespoke itineraries are front-loaded to allow flexibility—if weather delays a glacier helicopter tour, it can be swapped with grizzly bear spotting.

My jaw dropped in the backseat of a helicopter over British Columbia’s Coast Mountains as we climbed toward a granite cliff edge before nosediving over its back wall, fast. To the tune of whirring rotors, pilot Bastian Fleury of operator 49 North Helicopters smiled as he leveled out over a glacial formation that looked like hundreds of giant icicles strung together. Soaring over peaks shaped by volcanic activity and glaciers from the Ice Age, I heard Fleury’s voice crackle over my headset. “I see you,” he said to someone on the ground. “I’ll land beside the ice axe.”

He set down on a snow-white plateau beside a picnic setup complete with blankets and thermoses of hot coffee, deftly orchestrated by the hosts at Fawn Bluff, a new wilderness lodge that sleeps 18 and will be available for private buyouts beginning in spring 2026. Swiss-born Fleury flipped into chef mode, stirring up a Vacherin-Gruyère fondue into which I swirled chunks of apple and focaccia. After my last bite, I strapped on crampons, roped up alongside the group signed up for the adventure, and learned from Fleury how to use an ice axe before falling in step behind a seasoned mountain guide. Then, I crunched up to a viewpoint at 7,700 feet under a bluebird sky.

One of the wilder days of my life was just another morning at Fawn Bluff.

Guests sitting on the dock.

Brice Portolano/Fawn Bluff


Set upon Canada’s wild west coast and accessible only by plane or boat, this exclusive-use private lodge, named after the perennial fawn lilies native to the area, sits at the meeting of two pristine wonders: the edge of the Great Bear Rainforest, our planet’s largest intact temperate rainforest, and Bute Inlet, a glacier-fed fjord teeming with sea life. This corner of the world is also the unceded territory of the Homalco First Nation, known as “the people of the fast-running waters” and the ancestral stewards of this land. Two places of cultural importance surround Fawn Bluff: a view of Estero Peak, where Homalco ancestors are said to have survived a great flood by tying canoes to its summit, and Leask Lake, the lodge’s private lake, believed to have an underwater passage through which whales traveled. This significance is not lost on Paris-based entrepreneur David Tuchbant, who purchased Fawn Bluff in 2023.

Tuchbant first visited British Columbia to see transient orcas, but he ended up buying property. He says that the purpose of the lodge is to help the Homalco and “to build together for the future.” To that end, Tuchbant initially pledged 5 percent of sales and 100 percent of profits to the Homalco community, but has since released extra funding and resources to support a day treatment center for addiction. The long-term goal is for Fawn Bluff to become a fully non-profit hybrid hospitality project that will serve as an asset of the Homalco First Nation.

The lodge was built from Douglas firs in the mid-2000s by the previous owners, actor Michelle Pfeiffer and her husband, producer David E. Kelley, who vacationed here a few times a year. During construction, Kelley lived in a trailer from the set of the TV show Ally McBeal, which he created and produced; the trailer still sits near the helipad.

Today, Tuchbant’s vision for Fawn Bluff emphasizes warmth and coziness in the wild. “There’s something in luxury hospitality where we lose connection,” he says. “It’s cold, too perfect.” Fawn Bluff is the opposite—raw and real, with rewilding woven into its bones. The once-manicured gardens have been returned to their natural state, and Tuchbant removed all the hot tubs because they clashed with his clean power goals. (Hot tubs use a lot of energy to heat and circulate water.) The dozen on-site staff at Fawn Bluff also double as wildlife safety pros: every time I was outside, they were with me, armed with red canisters of bear spray in case one of the area’s six resident black bears were to cross our path.

When night fell and the staff headed back to their quarters, a deep quiet descended. I traded doomscrolling for thumbing through a copy of “Plants of the Pacific Northwest,” and peaking out to see the bright stars unhindered by light pollution before bed.

Read on for my full review of Fawn Bluff.

The Rooms

Details from inside a guest room.

Brice Portolano/Fawn Bluff


With accommodations spread across two log buildings, Fawn Bluff is geared toward large groups or families seeking luxurious comfort in the wilderness. The oceanfront Main House sleeps 14 (up to 10 adults and four children) in five bedrooms, and the Lake Cabin sleeps four, a 10-minute drive away on the edge of Leask Lake. Both have stunning water views and are decorated with Indigenous carved paddles, masks, and paintings, curated by Tuchbant.

The Main House, with its indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and sweeping deck, is the central gathering place for dining and relaxing. It also houses a kitchen, an open bar, and the family room—a cottagecore fantasy complete with couches, books, games, and a writing desk that gazes out over the water.

My suite on the ground level was outfitted with cotton bedsheets, organic toiletries from Tofino Soap Company, and a Dyson hairdryer. The ocean view tempted me out onto the patio, but Jonathan Clarke, director of operations and maintenance, affectionately known as “Mr. Safety,” reminded me to keep the door shut. “You don’t want a bear in your room.”

Food and Drink

Interior of a living area.

Brice Portolano/Fawn Bluff


I was sitting cross-legged on a pillow by the crackling fire after a lake swim, sipping a gin and tonic made with local Empress 1908 violet-hued gin, when a duo of sauteed spot prawns appeared before me; a sweet delicacy pulled from the ocean a few miles away. It was an amuse-bouche that culinary director Kwin Marion served on the coffee table rather than rushing us to the dining room. Like everyone at Fawn Bluff, Marion is well-versed in reading the room and changing plans—a moveable feast, if you will. Family-style meals are relaxed, and the no-shoes-inside policy also meant I was usually dining in supplied grey wool slippers.

“My food explores the idea of ‘What is Canadian cuisine?’” says the Calgary-born chef, whose ethos draws from the local terroir and his Michelin-starred resume (San Francisco’s Quince, Bangkok’s Gaggan). Here, the bounty of the season reigns supreme: coho salmon and fresh-cracked Dungeness crab, Canadian-grain risotto, as well as fruit and wine from British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. One morning, I opened the fridge and saw a dozen multicolored heirloom eggs from nearby Quadra Island, destined for brown butter omelets.

One afternoon, we sidestepped banana slugs as Marion guided me past moss-covered hemlocks, Sitka spruces, and a 300-year-old tree while learning about the 60-ish plants he forages nearby. Pre-bud salmonberries are fermented into capers, cedar tree pods are blended with sumac to create a faux lime juice, and haskap berries gave my morning kombucha its vermillion hue. One evening, a white tablecloth appeared for Marion’s tasting menu, which started with two wild bites: a fermented confit Sitka spruce cone and a seasoned baby tomato. The food—served to classical music, an ode to the classics played 24/7 at Fawn Bluff’s greenhouse—was worthy of a standing ovation.

Experiences

A helicopter excursion.

Katie Nanton/Travel + Leisure


Wilderness and bucket-list excursions abound thanks to the lodge’s far-flung locale. Guests spend their time salmon fishing, swimming in the lake, watching humpback whales, orcas, and grizzlies in their natural habitat, as well as engaging in cultural activities guided by Homalco community members.

Among my favorites was a helicopter tour to experience the glaciers three ways: by kayak, by cold dip, and on foot. Dropped beside the opaque turquoise water of a remote lake, I slipped into a blow-up kayak to paddle past icebergs as big as cars. On occasion, the glacier audibly groaned—a sign that it’s shifting at, well, a glacial pace. Within the crystalline quiet, the remoteness set in, as did the realization that these glaciers may melt in my young daughter’s lifetime. I pushed my limits and took a frigid cold dip before departing. No other tour operators land at this lake, so guests are more likely to see a grizzly bear than another human.

I did see grizzlies later in the week, albeit from a safe distance, with Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours near the Orford River, where the bears love to feast on autumn’s spawning salmon. To the cry of seagulls, we climbed a two-story gated viewing platform and waited. As I scanned the riverbanks, our guide pointed out a silvery-brown blur in the river. “There,” he whispered, and then, “Two!” Behind a big mama grizzly bounded a months-old cub. It jumped up onto the bank only to slip off, paws flailing—I know toddler dinnertime energy when I see it.

Returning to Fawn Bluff by boat in the magic hour light, someone spotted a fin. We cut the engine and waited for nature to take the lead. Five minutes passed before the fin appeared again right next to our boat, and a humpback tail followed in its sparkling wake. 

Accessibility and Sustainability

Fawn Bluff has a van available to transport guests from the docks to the guesthouses, and a master bedroom that does not require stairs to access.

Tuchbant is actively working toward a clean power vision for the property, which currently runs on a hybrid system of solar, hydroelectric, and diesel generators. Drinking water comes from the lake, and the greenhouse is being expanded to grow more food on-site.

Fawn Bluff is working with the Homalco First Nation on social, medical, and artistic programs, including funding a local group to train in a longhouse building in the Haida Gwaii archipelago, and commissioning cedar carvings by Derek Georgeson for the property.

The members of the Homalco Council have all visited Fawn Bluff, as have other groups for therapeutic and cultural excursions, such as canoe journeys. On my last day, I met with Homalco chief Darren Blaney to learn about his experience as a residential school survivor and the power of the land. “Nature is part of our healing,” he says. “And touching base with our land and culture gives us resilience.” 

Family-friendly Offerings

The lodge is very family-friendly and well-suited for multigenerational trips. It caters to little ones with touches like kid-sized Fjallraven backpacks, house-made honey-sumac gummy bears, and even a hollowed-out tree, transformed into an elf house, complete with tiny felt hats.

Location

Fawn Bluff might seem like it’s at the end of the world, but it’s also about an hour from an airport and an excellent fishing spot.

The lodge is accessible via helicopter or float plane from Vancouver—both take about an hour—or by a 35-minute twin-engine flight from Vancouver to Campbell River, then by boat. I traveled the latter route home and was treated to two oceanic rewards: a humpback sighting and a local sea urchin fishing boat docked in Campbell River, filled with hundreds of the still-moving spiny orbs. One was sliced open for us so we could sample the electric-orange uni inside. 

Book Now

Fawn Bluff opens for bookings in spring 2026, with stays available from June 1 to October 15. Nightly rates for a full property buyout start from 26,250 Canadian dollars ($18,825), which includes dedicated staff, all meals prepared by a private chef, a selection of wines and spirits, and guided activities. The rate excludes transfers and helicopter excursions.

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25 Best Places to Visit in August USA (2025 Edition) http://livelaughlovedo.com/travel/25-best-places-to-visit-in-august-usa-2025-edition/ http://livelaughlovedo.com/travel/25-best-places-to-visit-in-august-usa-2025-edition/#respond Sun, 08 Jun 2025 01:35:26 +0000 http://livelaughlovedo.com/2025/06/08/25-best-places-to-visit-in-august-usa-2025-edition/ [ad_1]

Wondering where to go for your August vacation? This guide to the best places to visit in August in the USA highlights perfect destinations for the ultimate summer experience across the country. Whether you’re looking for scenic national parks, vibrant cities, or relaxing beach towns, find the spot that suits your summer plans. You can expect nice weather in August, making it an ideal time for a road trip.

Quick List: Top August USA Destinations:

Looking for the perfect August getaway in the USA? Here are the top destinations offering ideal weather, exciting festivals, and unforgettable experiences:

  • Big Island, Hawai’i – Snorkeling, volcanic hikes, and stargazing.
  • Glacier National Park, MT – Scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and alpine trails.
  • San Francisco, CA – Iconic landmarks, cultural festivals, and coastal charm.
  • Yellowstone, WY – Geothermal wonders, abundant wildlife, and hiking adventures.
  • Mackinac Island, MI – Car-free exploration, historic sites, and fudge festivals.
  • Cape Cod, MA – Beach relaxation, whale watching, and seafood delights.
  • Lake Tahoe, CA/NV – Water sports, mountain views, and vibrant nightlife.
  • Outer Banks, NC – Family-friendly beaches, wild horses, and historic sites.
  • Asheville, NC – Blue Ridge Parkway drives, art scenes, and local breweries.
  • South Haven, MI – Lake Michigan sunsets, blueberry festivals, and sandy shores.

Introduction to August Travel

Top places to visit in August USATop places to visit in August USA

Picture yourself exploring the scenic beauty of Glacier National Park, where the trails are clear and the wildlife is abundant. Or perhaps a family-friendly road trip to the Jersey Shore, Acadia National Park, or the San Juan Islands is more your style, offering a mix of sandy beaches, hiking trails, and island-hopping adventures.

The summer months are perfect for visiting some of the country’s most beautiful places. With the kids on summer break, it’s an ideal time to pack up the car and hit the road. So why not start planning your next adventure and make the most of the sunny weather and scenic beauty that this month has to offer?

1. Big Island, Hawai’i

best places to travel in august USA Big Island of Hawaiibest places to travel in august USA Big Island of Hawaii

Why Visit in August:
When we visited, we found August is prime time for snorkeling, hiking, and stargazing on the Big Island. With warm, dry weather, it’s ideal for underwater adventures and exploring volcanic landscapes.

Top Things to Do:

  • Snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Kealakekua Bay
  • Hike the K?lauea Iki Trail in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
  • Visit Punalu?u Black Sand Beach
  • Stargaze from Mauna Kea, one of the world’s best spots for astronomy
  • Relax in natural hot springs

Local Tip: The island spans 8 climate zones, so you can go from lush rainforest to lava desert in a single day.

2. Glacier National Park, Montana

Best Places to Visit in August inn the USA Glacier National ParkBest Places to Visit in August inn the USA Glacier National Park

Why Visit in August:
August brings the best hiking conditions to Glacier National Park. Trails are snow-free, wildflowers bloom, and the Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open.

Top Things to Do:

  • Drive the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road
  • Spot grizzlies, bighorn sheep, and bald eagles
  • Hike to Swiftcurrent Lookout for stunning views of the Continental Divide
  • Kayak or paddleboard on Lake McDonald
  • Stay at Granite Park Chalet for a unique backcountry experience

Local Tip: Book early—August is peak season and lodging fills fast.

3. San Francisco, California

Best Places to Visit in August in USA San FranciscoBest Places to Visit in August in USA San Francisco

Why Visit in August:
Unlike much of California, San Francisco stays cool in August with its famous fog, making it great for city walks, festivals, and coastal escapes.

Top Things to Do:

  • Walk or bike the Golden Gate Bridge
  • Attend Outside Lands Festival in Golden Gate Park
  • Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island
  • Explore Chinatown during the Chinatown Music Festival
  • Stroll Fisherman’s Wharf and try fresh seafood

Local Tip: Dress in layers. It may be summer, but that ocean breeze is no joke.

4. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Geothermal wonders in Yellowstone National ParkGeothermal wonders in Yellowstone National Park

Why Visit in August:
August offers warm days, open trails, and optimal wildlife viewing. It’s a peak month for geysers, waterfalls, and scenic hikes.

Top Things to Do:

  • Watch Old Faithful erupt (on schedule!)
  • Hike the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
  • See the rainbow-colored Grand Prismatic Spring
  • Visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center
  • Spot elk, bears, bison, and wolves in Lamar Valley

Local Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and catch animals at their most active.

5. Asheville, North Carolina

Best Places To Visit USA Asheville North CarolinaBest Places To Visit USA Asheville North Carolina

Why Visit in August:
This mountain town comes alive in August with art festivals, live music, and scenic drives through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Top Things to Do:

  • Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Hike to waterfalls like Skinny Dip Falls and Schoolhouse Falls
  • Enjoy the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival
  • Sample craft brews at local breweries
  • Explore the River Arts District for galleries and local art

Local Tip: Asheville’s elevation keeps it cooler than much of the South, perfect for escaping the heat.

6. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Scenic view of Mackinac IslandScenic view of Mackinac Island

Why Visit in August:
August is peak season on this car-free island, perfect for biking, boat rides, and fudge tasting under sunny skies.

Top Things to Do:

  • Bike the 8-mile loop around the island’s coastline
  • Visit Fort Mackinac and explore 18th-century history
  • Enjoy the Mackinac Island Fudge Festival
  • Kayak Lake Huron’s clear waters
  • Take a horse-drawn carriage tour through downtown and nature trails

Local Tip: Book ferries in advance—August crowds arrive early and accommodations fill up fast.

7. Olympic National Park, Washington

fun places to visit in August USA Olympic National Parkfun places to visit in August USA Olympic National Park

Why Visit in August:
This is the driest month in a region known for rain. August is perfect for exploring the coast, rainforests, and alpine lakes in one trip.

Top Things to Do:

  • Hike Hurricane Ridge for panoramic views
  • Explore the mossy wonderland of the Hoh Rain Forest
  • Kayak on Lake Crescent or camp along the coast
  • Visit Rialto and Ruby Beaches for dramatic seascapes
  • Spot elk, eagles, and tidepool creatures

Local Tip: Pack layers—temperatures shift fast from coast to mountains.

8. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cool Places To Visit in August USa Cape Cod Provincetown beach Massachusetts USACool Places To Visit in August USa Cape Cod Provincetown beach Massachusetts USA

Why Visit in August:
This is classic New England summer: beach days, whale watching, and lobster rolls by the sea.

Top Things to Do:

  • Lounge at Coast Guard Beach and Nauset Beach
  • Take a whale-watching cruise from Provincetown
  • Visit lavender farms in Harwich
  • Enjoy seafood and sunset at The Beachcomber in Wellfleet
  • Explore Cape Cod National Seashore by bike

Local Tip: Beat beach traffic by going early or staying within walking distance to the shore.

9. Bar Harbor, Maine

Best Places to Visit in August USA BAr Harbor MaineBest Places to Visit in August USA BAr Harbor Maine

Why Visit in August:
With perfect weather and long daylight hours, August is ideal for hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching near Acadia.

Top Things to Do:

  • Hike Cadillac Mountain or the Beehive Trail
  • Kayak Frenchman Bay or rent a paddleboard
  • Join a ranger-led tour in Acadia National Park
  • Go whale watching from Bar Harbor’s marina
  • Sample lobster rolls and blueberry pie at local spots

Local Tip: Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain is a must—get there early for the view.

10. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Best Things to do in Lake Tahoe KayakingBest Things to do in Lake Tahoe Kayaking

Why Visit in August:
Lake Tahoe is at its summer best with warm lake water, beach days, and epic mountain views.

Top Things to Do:

  • Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski
  • Bike the South Tahoe Bike Path to access hidden beaches
  • Sunbathe at Sand Harbor or hike the Tahoe Rim Trail
  • Explore nearby casinos and summer concerts in Stateline
  • Take a boat tour to Emerald Bay

Local Tip: If you’re flying in, Reno-Tahoe Airport is just an hour away and often cheaper than flying into California hubs.

11. Park City, Utah

Best Places to Visit in August USA Park City UtahBest Places to Visit in August USA Park City Utah

Why Visit in August:
Cool mountain air and outdoor adventures make Park City a refreshing summer getaway in August.

Top Things to Do:

  • Soar over the Wasatch Mountains on a hot air balloon ride
  • Enjoy live music at the Deer Valley Summer Concert Series
  • Hike or bike scenic alpine trails like Armstrong Trail
  • Paddleboard or fly fish at Jordanelle Reservoir
  • Explore Main Street’s galleries, boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants

Local Tip: Pack a light jacket—nights are cool, even in summer.

12. Boulder, Colorado

Why Visit in August:
Sunny days, vibrant festivals, and mountain views make Boulder a summer favorite with outdoor and cultural appeal.

Top Things to Do:

  • See live music at Bands on the Bricks (runs through mid-August)
  • Attend the Colorado Shakespeare Festival
  • Hike the iconic Royal Arch Trail
  • Taste local brews at the Boulder Craft Beer Festival
  • Wander Pearl Street Mall for shopping, food, and street performers

Local Tip: Start hikes early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the Rockies.

13. Acadia National Park, Maine

Best Places to Visit in August USA Acadia National Park MaineBest Places to Visit in August USA Acadia National Park Maine

Why Visit in August:
August is Acadia’s peak month, with warm weather, clear skies, and trails at their best.

Top Things to Do:

  • Watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain
  • Bike the 45 miles of carriage roads (no cars allowed!)
  • Hike Gorham Mountain Loop or Jordan Pond Path
  • Kayak along the rugged coastline
  • Join a ranger program for insider tips and wildlife spotting

Local Tip: Stay in nearby Bar Harbor for easy access and charming seaside vibes.

14. San Diego, California

best places to go in usa in august San Diegobest places to go in usa in august San Diego

Why Visit in August:
Perfect weather, coastal charm, and family-friendly fun make San Diego a top summer escape.

Top Things to Do:

  • Sunbathe and swim at La Jolla Shores or Coronado Beach
  • Visit the San Diego Zoo, one of the best in the world
  • Explore Balboa Park, packed with museums and gardens
  • Enjoy harbor cruises or rent kayaks to paddle around sea caves
  • Attend local summer concerts and festivals

Local Tip: For fewer crowds, visit popular beaches in the early morning or during the week.

15. Door County, Wisconsin

Why Visit in August:
With cherry season in full swing and 300 miles of shoreline, Door County is Midwest summer at its finest.

Top Things to Do:

  • Pick cherries or attend a cherry festival
  • Explore Peninsula State Park for hiking, biking, and kayaking
  • Visit historic lighthouses like Eagle Bluff Light
  • Take the ferry to Washington Island for a peaceful retreat
  • Enjoy fish boils and local wine at waterfront restaurants

Local Tip: Book lodging early—August is Door County’s busiest month.

16. Seattle, Washington

best places to travel in usa in august Seattle Washingtonbest places to travel in usa in august Seattle Washington

Why Visit in August:
August is Seattle’s driest and sunniest month, perfect for exploring the city and nearby natural wonders.

Top Things to Do:

  • Catch the Blue Angels Air Show at Seafair
  • Attend concerts at Climate Pledge Arena or local festivals
  • Take a Mount Rainier day tour with hiking and wildflower views
  • Kayak at Lake Union or enjoy the Duwamish River Festival
  • Visit Pike Place Market, then ride the Seattle Great Wheel

Local Tip: Take the ferry to Bainbridge Island for small-town charm and skyline views.

17. Portland, Oregon

best places to travel in usa in august Portland Oregonbest places to travel in usa in august Portland Oregon

Why Visit in August:
Portland shines in August with music festivals, quirky events, and peak food truck season.

Top Things to Do:

  • Experience the indie vibe of the Pickathon Music Festival
  • Watch soapbox racers fly at the PDX Adult Soapbox Derby
  • Eat your way through the Jade Night Market with 100+ global vendors
  • Visit the Elephant Garlic Festival for garlic ice cream and more
  • Wander through the vibrant blooms at the Portland Dahlia Festival

Local Tip: Rent a bike to explore Portland’s many bridges and neighborhoods on two wheels.

18. Glynn County, Georgia

Why Visit in August:
History meets nature in Glynn County, with island escapes and cultural landmarks all in one trip.

Top Things to Do:

  • Tour Fort Frederica National Monument on St. Simons Island
  • Explore Jekyll Island Historic District and its grand cottages
  • Climb the St. Simons Lighthouse for coastal views
  • Visit the Brunswick Historic District for dining and architecture
  • Take a guided tour of Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation

Local Tip: August heat is real—schedule outdoor activities for morning and late afternoon.

19. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Best Places to Visit in August USA Outer Banks North CarolinaBest Places to Visit in August USA Outer Banks North Carolina

Why Visit in August:
This East Coast barrier island chain offers peak summer fun, from wild horses to pirate festivals.

Top Things to Do:

  • Celebrate at the Outer Banks Pirate Festival and Watermelon Festival
  • Take a Corolla Wild Horse Tour along the beach
  • Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial
  • Relax at family-friendly beaches or go kiteboarding and kayaking
  • Tour the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum

Local Tip: Book a vacation rental with beach access for the full OBX experience.

20. The Smoky Mountains, Tennessee & North Carolina

Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg TennesseeGreat Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg Tennessee

Why Visit in August:
The Smokies offer cooler mountain air, wildflower-filled meadows, and waterfall hikes during August.

Top Things to Do:

  • Hike the Gregory Bald or Ramsey Cascades Trail
  • Bike the Cades Cove Loop on car-free mornings
  • Kayak or paddleboard on Fontana Lake
  • See elk and black bears at Cataloochee Valley
  • Visit mountain towns like Gatlinburg and Bryson City

Local Tip: Afternoon rain showers are common—pack a light rain jacket and hike early.

21. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Why Visit in August:
The Berkshires mix summer culture and mountain adventure, with August packed full of performances, music, and outdoor fun.

Top Things to Do:

  • Catch a show at the Berkshire Theatre Group or Williamstown Theatre Festival
  • Watch dance at the world-renowned Jacob’s Pillow Festival
  • Hike the Appalachian Trail or zipline through Berkshire East
  • Attend a concert at Tanglewood, summer home of the Boston Symphony
  • Go whitewater rafting or take a scenic mountain coaster ride

Local Tip: Weekdays are quieter—ideal if you want to avoid the artsy weekend rush.

22. Cape May, New Jersey

Best Places To Travel in august USA Cape May New JerseyBest Places To Travel in august USA Cape May New Jersey

Why Visit in August:
Cape May blends beach vibes with historic charm and is one of the most photogenic towns on the East Coast.

Top Things to Do:

  • Walk the Victorian-lined streets and shop in quaint boutiques
  • Swim and relax at Cape May Beach
  • Go on a whale-watching cruise from the marina
  • Climb the Cape May Lighthouse for sweeping views
  • Dine at open-air seafood spots near the shore

Local Tip: Sunset Beach is the best place to catch a classic Atlantic Ocean sunset.

23. Memphis, Tennessee

Why Visit in August:
August in Memphis means Elvis Week, smoky BBQ, and nonstop music energy from Beale Street to Graceland.

Top Things to Do:

  • Celebrate Elvis Week with concerts, film screenings, and vigils
  • Tour Graceland, Elvis’s legendary home
  • Eat at world-famous BBQ joints like Central BBQ or Gus’s Fried Chicken
  • Hear live blues on Beale Street
  • Visit the National Civil Rights Museum for a powerful cultural experience

Local Tip: Hydrate and plan indoor breaks—Memphis heat and humidity can be intense.

24. Boston, MA

Top places to travel in August USA Boston MATop places to travel in August USA Boston MA

Why Visit in August:
Historic landmarks meet summer fun in Boston, with lively parks, harbor cruises, and street performances.

Top Things to Do:

  • Walk the Freedom Trail to see 16 historic sites
  • Shop, dine, and people-watch at Faneuil Hall Marketplace
  • Relax at the Rose Kennedy Greenway with art, beer gardens, and a carousel
  • Cruise Boston Harbor or hop a ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands
  • Catch live music and street shows in the North End

Local Tip: Visit early in the day to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temps for walking tours.

25. South Haven, Michigan

Why Visit in August:
This Lake Michigan beach town is summer perfection—blueberry festivals, sunsets, and soft sandy beaches.

Top Things to Do:

  • Lounge at North Beach or South Beach with lake views
  • Visit during the National Blueberry Festival for parades and live music
  • Explore cute shops and cafés downtown
  • Watch sunset at the South Haven Lighthouse
  • Tour local wineries and breweries just minutes from the lake

Local Tip: Book early for festival weekend—it’s one of the most popular summer events in Michigan.

Listen, August is an excellent time to visit some of the most beautiful places in the US. With warm and sunny weather, exciting outdoor activities, and a range of family-friendly destinations, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an action-packed adventure, or a fun and educational experience for the whole family, the US has it all.

So why not start planning your next trip today? Book ahead and get ready for the trip of a lifetime, exploring the most beautiful places the US has to offer. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to a favorite spot, August is the perfect month to make new memories and enjoy the best of summer.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Places to Visit in August in The USA

Best Places To Visit in USA in AugustBest Places To Visit in USA in August
What are the best places to visit in the USA in August?

Top August travel destinations include Glacier National Park (MT), Big Island (HI), San Francisco (CA), Asheville (NC), Cape Cod (MA), and Lake Tahoe (CA/NV). These spots offer ideal weather, outdoor adventure, and unique summer events.

Where is the best weather in the US in August?

Great weather in August can be found in places like San Diego, Mackinac Island, and the Pacific Northwest (Olympic National Park and Seattle), where temperatures stay mild and skies are generally sunny.

Are there affordable places to travel in August in the USA?

Yes! Budget-friendly options include Asheville (NC), Bar Harbor (ME), Memphis (TN), and South Haven (MI), all offering outdoor activities, free festivals, and reasonably priced lodging.

What are the best family-friendly destinations in the USA in August?

Family favorites include the Outer Banks (NC), Yellowstone National Park (WY), Cape Cod (MA), and Door County (WI), where kids can enjoy beaches, history, wildlife, and summer festivals.

Which US national parks are best to visit in August?

Top national parks for August travel include Glacier (MT), Yellowstone (WY), Acadia (ME), Olympic (WA), and Great Smoky Mountains (TN/NC), with clear trails, scenic drives, and wildlife sightings.

What makes August a good month to travel in the USA?

August is ideal for travel thanks to warm weather, long daylight hours, open trails in national parks, and a wide variety of festivals and outdoor events across the country.

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9 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Las Vegas http://livelaughlovedo.com/travel/9-best-family-friendly-hotels-in-las-vegas/ http://livelaughlovedo.com/travel/9-best-family-friendly-hotels-in-las-vegas/#respond Tue, 03 Jun 2025 00:51:58 +0000 http://livelaughlovedo.com/2025/06/03/9-best-family-friendly-hotels-in-las-vegas/ [ad_1]

Las Vegas may be famed for its nightlife, but it’s also quietly carving out a space for families seeking thoughtful entertainment. From the mesmerizing Bellagio fountains and the immersive Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay to the adrenaline rush of Adventuredome’s indoor rides and arcade, the city offers a surprising range of experiences for all ages. The Venetian’s gondola rides, the High Roller’s panoramic views, and the ever-changing floral artistry of the Bellagio Conservatory provide moments of wonder for younger travelers. With shows like Cirque du Soleil’s Mystère, Tournament of Kings, and engaging museums the whole family will enjoy. Just a short drive from the Las Vegas Strip, Fremont Street delivers a dynamic blend of old-school Vegas charm and modern spectacle. Beneath the canopy of the dazzling Viva Vision light show, families can explore interactive attractions, catch free live performances, and soak in the retro-cool energy of arcades and famous impersonators. For an unforgettable thrill, soar above the crowds on the SlotZilla zipline—an only-in-Vegas experience that delights kids and adults alike. Vegas balances its legendary energy with spaces where kids—and their parents—can play, explore, and unwind.

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