Plan your perfect late summer getaway today!
Retirement means different things to different people, but often what seniors look forward to most are all the travel opportunities! Every season has its own perks for traveling, but if you love warm weather and sunshine that gives way to cool, breezy evenings, late summer is a perfect time to plan a trip.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or a more active vacation with sightseeing, our list of summer travel destinations includes trips for every traveler!
Here’s a mix of U.S. and international destinations for summer travel:
- Banff, Canada
- Key West, Florida
- Bar Harbor, Maine
- Traverse City, Michigan
- Santa Barbara, California
- French Riviera
- Glacier National Park, Montana
Let’s see what each of these summer travel destinations has to offer!
Banff, Canada
Just like snowbirds go south in the winter, it can be a great idea to head north in the summer in search of cooler temperatures! Banff is the perfect summer travel destination for seniors with a passion for the great outdoors. Take in the breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies, and don’t miss the crown jewel of Banff: turquoise-blue Lake Louise! Banff itself is a quaint, friendly town with plenty of shops and restaurants, so you can get out and experience the culture of the area in between your nature excursions.
Key West, Florida
If you’re more the type to embrace the heat of the season instead of escaping it, Key West is an ideal place to while away those balmy summer days. The island is full of character and charm, well-known for its bright colors and vibrant streets. Spend your days lounging on the sand, or take a boat tour of the island to see the sights. Key West is also home to a variety of galleries and museums (like the Shipwreck Museum and Hemingway House), as well as plenty of fresh seafood restaurants.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Located on the coast of Maine, this charming town is full of beautiful scenery, as well as plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. It’s the gateway to Acadia National Park, which has some of the best walking trails and views in the northeast! Take a cruise around the harbor to admire the rocky coastline, or go on a whale-watching tour to spot some amazing wildlife. When you’re done for the day, grab dinner and wander into Bar Harbor’s many cute souvenir shops for mementos.
Traverse City, Michigan
Midwesterners don’t have to go all the way to a coast when the Great Lakes are right in their backyard! This city, located right on the shores of Lake Michigan, is an ideal spot for a peaceful summer getaway. Enjoy the stunning views of the lake, take a leisurely stroll through one of the many scenic parks, or rent a kayak and paddle into the sunset.
Santa Barbara, California
Why should LA and San Francisco get all the love? This vibrant California town is full of culture and beauty, from its picturesque beaches to its beautiful Spanish-style buildings. Plus, Santa Barbara is home to world-class wineries, art museums, botanic gardens, and more. Take a stroll down State Street, and be sure to visit Stearns Wharf for some amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.
French Riviera
From glamorous cities like Nice and Cannes to charming villages such as Saint-Paul-de-Vence and Eze, the French Riviera has so much to offer. The region boasts a rich cultural heritage, with plenty of historical sites and hidden gems for visitors to discover. Wind your way down the coastline admiring the azure blue waters of the Mediterranean, pop into French cafes for delectable pastries, and find a beach to soak up the sun.
Glacier National Park, Montana
This northern national park is snowed in for most of the year, so seize the opportunity for a summer trip! Take a scenic drive around the park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road, or venture out on one of the many hiking trails for some breathtaking views of the area. There are also plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including mountain goats, elk, bears, and eagles. Hire a guide or book an official tour to stay safe in the Montana wilderness.
Want to get inspired for travel planning the rest of the year, too? Check out these hearing loss-friendly spring destinations, scenic autumn getaway spots, and warm winter escapes!
If you are a traveler with hearing loss, check out our previous blog posts on travel tips for people with hearing loss, taking a tour with hearing loss, and air travel tips for people with hearing loss.
