As record-breaking heatwaves continue to grip much of the Northern Hemisphere, a growing number of American travelers are swapping tropical beaches for crisp mountain air and foggy coastlines. According to recent travel guides and reports, “coolcations” — vacations to milder, cooler destinations — have become one of this summer’s biggest trends.
Tourism experts note that more travelers are prioritizing comfort and lower temperatures over traditional sun-soaked escapes. From misty Nordic fjords to breezy American lakeshores, these destinations are offering a refreshing alternative for heat-averse vacationers.
Cool U.S. Getaways
In the United States, several destinations stand out for their mild summer weather:
- Blue Ridge, Georgia: Located in the North Georgia Mountains, Blue Ridge offers summer temperatures up to 10 degrees cooler than Atlanta. Visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails, local breweries, and serene lake views without the oppressive heat.
- Huron County, Michigan: This Lake Huron region is ideal for boating, fishing, and waterfront picnics. The cool breezes off the lake provide natural relief during the hottest months.
- San Francisco, California: Famous for its foggy summers, San Francisco rarely sees temperatures above 70°F (21°C), making it a reliable option for travelers looking to avoid extreme heat.
- Upper Peninsula, Michigan & Breckenridge, Colorado: The UP offers rugged, ferry-access wilderness, while Breckenridge enjoys alpine highs that typically stay in the upper 60s°F (around 18°C).
International Chill Spots
Globally, northern destinations continue to lure visitors seeking a break from scorching temperatures:
- Iceland and Scandinavia: With summer highs around 50–60°F (10–15°C), these regions offer glacier hikes, hot springs, and long daylight hours.
- British Columbia, Canada: From Whistler’s alpine lakes to Vancouver Island’s coastal breezes, Canada’s west coast delivers cooler conditions and stunning scenery.
- Dalat, Vietnam & Tasmania, Australia: Dalat’s high elevation ensures comfortable days in the 70s°F (21–26°C), while Tasmania provides a mix of rainforests and wineries in a refreshingly mild climate.
Why Travelers Are Choosing Coolcations
The shift comes as climate change pushes summer temperatures to new extremes. Vogue and Travel & Leisure report that travelers are increasingly selecting destinations that allow them to stay active outdoors without risking heat exhaustion.
Beyond comfort, experts suggest that these cooler trips also appeal to those seeking quieter, less crowded alternatives to mainstream beach destinations.
“People are realizing that you don’t have to roast under the sun to have a memorable summer vacation,” notes a recent feature from Vogue. “A hike along a misty Icelandic trail or a bike ride in the Pacific Northwest can be just as rejuvenating — and much more comfortable.”
For American families, “coolcations” offer an escape from both heat and rising energy bills tied to air conditioning at home. With destinations like Michigan’s lakeshores or Colorado’s mountain towns accessible by car or short flights, more travelers are making last-minute switches to cooler climates.
