During extreme heat, staying at home seems quite unbearable. This is why a lot of people decide to use this climate shift to travel someplace more pleasant. Moreover, the weather tends to be much more predictable during the summer. Chances of downpours are significantly lower, which means that there’s a lower chance that your holiday will be interrupted by unexpected atmospheric occurrences.

Now, before we proceed, it’s important to mention a couple of things. Seeing as how the summer is already in full swing, we’ll narrow down our list to the best vacationing places in the US. Planning a trip abroad takes more time and reorganization, time that you might not have at the moment.

Second, we won’t recommend any major tourist hotspots. If you’re retreating for peace, you want to be left alone, which means that you don’t want to be surrounded by millions of tourists. For instance, about 11.6 million people visited Miami in 2022, which was a horrible year for tourism worldwide.

With this in mind and without further ado, here’s a list of some surprising getaway options. Some of these entries may have never popped into your mind, but they may also be exactly what you need.

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is a popular tourist destination in winter. However, what the majority of people fail to realize is that this place has just as much to offer in summer (minus the crowd and at a lower cost). One of the things that you probably didn’t know about Leavenworth is that it’s the Northwest’s hottest wine region.

The place has a European-style atmosphere, and a lot of people describe it as a real Bavarian village in the middle of Washington. So, if, for any reason, you doubt that you’ll be able to make it to the Oktoberfest this year, stopping by Leavenworth might be a decent substitute.

One of the things that you just have to do if visiting during summer is to do a hike on the Icicle Ridge trail. This is just a 90-minute-long hike, seeing as how it’s not longer than 6 miles. In other words, even if you’re not in your top shape or an experienced hiker, you’ll still be able to make it.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Simply put, Gatlinburg has some of the world’s best breweries, wineries, and distilleries. So, if you’re an enjoyer of alcoholic beverages, it’s one of those places that you just won’t want to miss out on. Dollywood amusement park is one of the best places to visit, especially for those who are not traveling alone.

The view is spectacular, especially for those who decide to visit the Sky Lift. Here, you’re taken to a 1,800 feet high observation deck with telescopes. This means that you get a clear view of the Smoky Mountains, as well as all the settlements surrounding it. To make things even better, this is not the only observation tower in the area.

Those who don’t find the view from the observatory to be enough should definitely consider going to visit the Smoky Mountains national park in person. The climate here is quite humid, which causes abundant pine forests to produce vapor that, to some, may look quite mist-like. Keep in mind, nonetheless, that both the view and scent of these pines may be a completely new experience for any visitor. Spending more time in nature is always a sensible idea.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis is one of the best places for individuals and families alike. The food scene is quite innovative, the place itself is quite budget-friendly to visit, and there’s a plethora of sports stadiums, theater venues, and concert halls.

Another thing that qualifies Minneapolis as an ideal summer getaway is the fact that it’s a compact city, which makes it quite easy to explore. Getting around Minneapolis is quite simple, seeing as how its transit system might just be one of the best in the country. For instance, if you want to use metro lines, you can just get a 7-day pass for as little as $24. Even outside of this, there are buses, Uber, bike rentals, and more.

Bars around Minneapolis are quite amazing, as well. For those who are looking for a night of live music in a calm and friendly environment, Minneapolis has so many options. You can also find a place hosting a live comedy show or even be lucky enough to visit the place during a Women’s Empowerment Music festival. In other words, there’s as much to do in Minneapolis in the evening as there is during the day.

Half Moon Bay, California

A lot of people imagine a resort as something that’s seaside based. What does this mean? Well, they want to take cliffside coastal hikes, visit small isolated beaches, and do some beachcombing. People who have previously visited Half Moon Bay will immediately acknowledge that this is exactly what this amazing place represents.

If you’re a bit undecided on whether you want a low-key vacation spot or a visit to a tourist hotspot, it’s worth mentioning that Half Moon Bay really isn’t that far off from San Francisco. The route there itself can be quite scenic. If you head out there before 10 AM, you’ll be able to beat the traffic and grab yourself a prime spot on the beach. In return, staying late will allow you to enjoy the scenery and avoid the traffic, once again.

Now, while the place has some of the most beautiful beaches in the area, the water is quite cold, which makes it less than ideal for swimming. This doesn’t deter surfers; however, casual tourists find this to be not that pleasant. There are so many places from which you can admire the ocean, and one of the most iconic such spots is the Pidgeon Point Lighthouse. A visit to this place can be quite serene and may help you recollect your thoughts before heading back home.

Woodstock, Vermont

While a lot of places pride themselves on being pretty, Woodstock in Vermont was actually voted to be the prettiest town in America. It’s an iconic New England village with incredible foliage. However, the peak tourist season here is in fall. The fact that it’s so lushly green and heavily forested ensures that the temperature here never goes too high.

If you plan to go on an active vacation, the place is simply great for hiking. For those who can’t make their mind between staying active and fully engaging in hedonism, you always have the option of taking a long trail from one local brewery to another. This is quite a trail and seeing as how a delicious refreshment awaits you at the end, it’s quite easy to endure.

For those who are looking forward to mastering new skills, there’s so much you can do. The place is filled with glass-blowing courses, farmland living experiences, and even a chance to get a glimpse into the agriculture of New England by visiting some of these farms. The town is peaceful, the food is simple and delicious, while breweries here are second to none. In other words, there are plenty of things you can do here while laying low.

In Conclusion

As you can see, there are so many underrated, low-cost summer destinations for you to visit this summer. You don’t have to pick a popular tourist destination, and you don’t have to go to the seaside. Chances are that picking a remote retreat might be exactly what you were looking for in order to unwind before the next season. Either way, it’s an idea worth exploring.

About The Author

Stacey is a freelance writer living in Minnesota with her cat, and she’s passionate about yoga, languages, home improvement, and drinking strong coffee. Find her on Twitter @StaceyShann0n

Why go on a yoga retreat?

If you are anything like me, you have either been or plan on going on a yoga retreat at some point. Perhaps it is a friend coaxing you to go on a retreat as a wing woman for her post breakup solution. Or maybe you recently experienced a life changing event and feel like a mindful vacation will help you get centered for the next phase of life. Whatever you reasons are for going on your first or tenth retreat, the experience of a yoga retreat is so much more than learning to do a warrior pose, or perfecting your downward facing dog.

So, if it’s not just for the yoga, then why? Why do so many men and women choose a yoga retreat as their vacation of choice? Here are some of the benefits, in addition to doing a lot of yoga, that a yoga retreat can offer. Including days of wearing yoga pants!

Yoga Retreat: The Details

Who goes and Where?

A yoga retreat is a great excuse to take a vacation, either alone or with a friend or partner. The word “retreat” has meaning, as most yoga retreats take place in a serene, quiet destination setting. (Think Costa Rica, or one of the Greek Islands). Because it is meant to be a mindful experience, the location is strongly taken into consideration. So the more remote, the better.

Do I have to be good at yoga?

Unless the retreat suggests advanced practitioners only, all yoga retreats are fair game for beginning to advanced levels. Remember, a yoga retreat is meant to be a safe place. A place where you can accept who you are, move your body and be mindful of the connection between your mind and body.

How long do yoga retreats last?

A yoga retreat can be over a three day weekend or can last seven to ten days on average.

What do you pack and bring?

What you take with you really depends on the destination of the yoga retreat. For example, if the retreat takes place on a seaside setting, bathing suits and snorkel gear maybe suggested. Remember, you won’t be doing yoga twenty four seven on a yoga retreat. Usually, there are two times of daily practice so that means a lot of free time. So plan on bringing seasonal attire, a good book, a journal, a yoga mat and cleaner, and laptop (if you must).

Do both men and women go?

I have been on numerous yoga retreats and the majority of the attendees have been women. That said, there are plenty of woke men that attend who generally care about their wellbeing, both mental and spiritual. For them, having matcha tea with a bunch of women is more appealing at this point in their lives than doing shots with their boys in Cabo. Cheers to woke men! Often times, couples will go on retreats together. That way, they have each other to spend time with during that downtime I mentioned. So romantic!

What are the accommodations usually like?

While new age talk is all yurts and pup tents, being one with nature does not actually mean you have to sleep without some of your domestic usuals. Because most yoga teachers who attend these retreats desire the same creature comforts. And perhaps they have already had a retreat at that location and liked the hotel vibe or have received positive feedback from other yoga instructors about a hotel or unique set up. Moreover, the last thing anyone wants during a mindful retreat is discomfort. That said, if its a five star hotel set up, you could be missing the point. Completely! So think somewhere in between yurt and five star accommodation.

How much does a yoga retreat usually cost?

A short weekend trip will usually cost about $500-1000.00 Which usually includes daily meals and accommodations. And a longer trip from seven to ten days can run about two to three thousand which includes meals and accommodations.

For meals, a healthy cook is usually hired to prepare delicious meals. Unless there is a restaurant at the hotel or space you are staying. Be sure to bring extra money for outings in case you want snacks and extras.

What do you do besides yoga on a yoga retreat?

And this is where it gets interesting. Since these locales are usually exotic and serene, nature beckons activities in between daily yoga practice times. Whether you choose to surf, paddle board, snorkel or hike up a beautiful mountain, the majestic scenery will heighten your senses. Often times, meditation is incorporated within the daily practice. And with all the beauty that nature will offer on your retreat, you are bound to go deeper within your meditative practice.

The yoga organizer will schedule activities

Activities such as visiting an essential oil distillery or going to a culture heavy restaurant. Or maybe scheduling wine tasting at a local winery, or visiting a favorite local shop. Whether you explore the shops and restaurants or find the most touristy thing to do, the retreat in many ways, reminds us to be mindful that we are just visiting.

Sometimes, there are activities right on site of the yoga location. During a recent retreat to Nova Scotia we tie dyed items we brought with us or bought during our stay.

How do I find my perfect yoga retreat?

Going on a yoga retreat is a mindful getaway. It is a time to recenter yourself and to meet like minded people. It is a vacation that prepares you for when you get back to reality. Not by reminding you what you have to do when you get back, but that your reality depends on your perspective more than your circumstances.

You can find your next yoga retreat by checking in with your local yoga studio and community. Or check out these suggestions and book your yoga retreat for 2020.

Tag: yoga-retreat

Most Relaxing Retreat Options this Summer