Stay Cool While Checking Destinations Off Your Bucket List
The heat of summer can make it challenging to get out and enjoy certain activities, especially when just breathing makes you break out in a sweat. So why not get away to a destination that’ll bring that inner temperature down? Explore some of these gems that can help beat the dog days of summer.
1. Let the Mist Cool You Off in Niagara Falls
The phenomenon known as Niagara Falls attracts thousands of visitors every day, year-round, even in the dead of winter. An impressive 3,160 tons of water rush over the falls each minute! Located in New York, Niagara Falls stretches across to the Canadian border as well. Remember, if you decide to visit the Canadian side you will need your passport.
There are plenty of things to do at this national attraction, including touring beneath the falls in the Maid of the Mist boat and through the Cave of the Winds that brings guests within touching distance of the rushing water. Visitors will also find several observatories in target locations. A mist comes off the falls, cooling guests off in the summer months while they witness the breathtaking sights and rush of the water.
2. Experience Christmas in July in Leavenworth
A trip to Germany is on many people’s bucket list. But there’s a town in Leavenworth, Washington, that rekindles the spirit of Bavaria and an old German atmosphere, right here in the US.
Summer is a great time to visit and beat the heat while enjoying Christmas-themed activities and exploring the magic of a real-life reindeer farm. Leavenworth has plenty of cool activities including wineries and outdoor shows. Guests can also take a stroll through the nostalgic German-themed streets that transport them to a faraway place.
3. Step Back in Time at Mackinac Island
Does beating the summer heat while touring a quaint island that seems to be cut off from the rest of world sound interesting? Check out Mackinac Island, Michigan. Located just to the northeast of the bridge it was named after, a ferry boat transports visitors to this magical place.
There are no cars on the island, so visitors can enjoy a horse-drawn buggy ride or rent a bike to get around. Take in the cool summer breezes off the Great Lakes, while breathing in the scent of lilac and a hint of tasty homemade fudge.
The iconic Grand Hotel — where the movie Somewhere in Time was filmed with Christopher Reeve — overlooks the island. There are plenty of things to do and quaint hotels to stay at while here.
4. Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Breckinridge
To keep body temps down, escape to the mountains! Breckinridge is a hot spot for families and active adults. If skiing or white-water rafting isn’t on the to-do list, the breathtaking views of the Rockies along with the colorful Victorian shops at the foothills are pure eye candy. Maybe panning for gold is on the bucket list? Guests can do it here during the summer and take in the breathtaking views of the ski hills and landscape.
5. Erupt in Awe at Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park
Another favorite out west is tucked away in scenic Wyoming. A getaway in itself, the Yellowstone National Park holds a major tourist attraction — Old Faithful. This geyser attracts people daily who arrive just to see the spouting eruption. Temperatures only reach the low to mid-70s in the summer, making it a great way to escape the heat.
While it’s nice to relax in the comfort of the cool AC indoors, there’s plenty to do outside, even in the summer. Beat the skyrocketing temperatures and check out a cool destination getaway. If you don’t have the time for an extended vacation, you can always check out some of these day trips that are sure to break you out of your routine.
~Here’s to Your Financial Health!
