Seven of the Best Vacation Ideas for Summer

With the challenges the United States has faced over the last year, you may have put vacation plans on hold. Optimism is sparkling on the horizon, though, and summer 2024 is the perfect time for a vacation. You don't have to go far to take the trip of a lifetime either. Relax in comfort with these seven safe and fun vacation ideas, all available within the United States.

1. Visit a Winery in the Texas Hill Country 

With fine wines, great shopping, and plenty of history, Texas Hill Country is a great place to enjoy a vacation. Fredericksburg, Texas, is one of the largest wine-producing regions in the United States. The picturesque region is home to more than 100 wineries, 50 of them in Fredericksburg alone. Luxurious cottages and rustic cabins are sprinkled throughout the area, perfect for a romantic getaway. Wine companies offer various private tours, or you can hope on a wine shuttle and visit set wineries. Fredericksburg is about 70 miles from Austin, so an easy drive from the airport, but far enough into the country to feel like you've gotten away from it all. Texas gets hot as the summer progresses, so this trip is best taken in June.

2. Take an Alaskan Cruise

If something more inclusive and with less planning is more your speed, consider a luxurious Alaskan cruise. Cruises offer a lot of flexibility as well as enhanced safety and cleaning protocols. This means your journey will be worry-free, from planning to cruising. Cruises are full of great entertainment, perfect cocktails, and you never have to think about where to go for dinner.

Plus, with plenty of accessibility options, choosing to cruise puts the Last Frontier well within reach. Alaska's reputation for serene landscapes and rugged beauty is well-founded, and you can experience it all from the comfort of a ship deck. With offshore excursions perfect for couples, like whale watching and salmon fishing, a luxurious trip to Alaska will make summer 2024 a magical season to remember. 

3. Stay at a Florida Resort

If you're more of a landlubber, a visit to an all-inclusive Florida golf resort may be more your speed. Even if you're not a golfer, resorts offer plenty of restaurant choices, cocktail bars, and pools for a relaxing and fun getaway. Plus, you can luxuriate in the spa while he perfects his game on the course. It's fun to get away and see local attractions too. In Florida, beaches, museums, and shopping are all within reach. Even if you stay on the resort grounds your whole stay, there's plenty to fill your itinerary. Many resorts offer yoga classes, tennis lessons, and live music, so you may not want to stray far. 

4. Take a Tour of Charleston

Visiting a historic city is another great option if you're looking to stay on solid ground. Charleston, located in South Carolina, is packed with all the must-haves for a perfect vacation. Charleston was voted America's number one city, and for a good reason. With beautiful, historic architecture, scenic views, and easy access to beaches, it's got a little of everything. Try a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride, and stop for a bite to eat at one of the city's delicious restaurants.

5. Visit a National Park 

If you're looking for a little more adventure in your summer vacation, try Zion National Park. Zion is the perfect vacation for the active couple, with incredible landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities, and fresh air. No matter your hiking experience, there's a trail for everyone. Most are easily accessible via the park's shuttle, and many routes are paved and wheelchair-friendly. Plus, there are plenty of other activities to try, like horseback riding and kayaking. Just outside the park, the city of Springdale is full of quaint diners, rustic cottages, and souvenir shops. Since Zion is located in Southern Utah, you're just a short drive from other picturesque settings, like Bryce Canyon and Glen Canyon.

6. Discover the Wild West

Discover your inner cowgirl by visiting a dude ranch in Wyoming. Wyoming is full of exciting history and rich landscapes to explore. Most ranches offer luxuries like spas and upgraded suites. Activities for couples abound, including horseback riding, shooting, and pottery classes. Wyoming is just a short drive from many national parks, allowing you to explore the west. This picturesque area of the United States is one you won't want to miss out on.

7. Explore the Caribbean 

If sitting on a beach, sipping a drink, with your toes in the sand, is your definition of relaxing, consider a cruise to the U.S. Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico. Many cruises leave from ports in Florida and take you to multiple islands and is a great, worry-free way to see much of the Caribbean. Shore excursions like beach trips, sky rides, and snorkeling offer a great adventure for couples. Plus, since you won't have to plan for dinner or evening entertainment, your days will be hassle-free, making for the perfect vacation.