This summer is scorching hot! Nearly every major climate-tracking organization proclaimed June [2023] the hottest June ever recorded. Subsequently, this July cranked up the heat as the hottest month ever recorded on earth.

Most of the U.S. is scorching but there are still some corners of the country where you can find sweet, cool relief. Here are some of the most temperate travel destinations in the U.S. this summer and their average summer temperatures in Fahrenheit.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Average Summer Temperatures: 50 to 71 degrees

Average Rainy Days in Summer: 8

Imagine having 24 hours of sunlight to explore a wilderness paradise. Fairbanks is known for its Midnight sun, a natural phenomenon that occurs during the summer in places north of the Arctic Circle or South of the Antarctic Circle. In this cool city, the Midnight Sun Season spans from May 17–July 27. Go for mountain hikes or get close to loveable canines on a dog carting ride, the summer version of dog sledding, which keeps sled dogs in shape year-round.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

Average Summer Temperature: 28 to 50 degrees

Average Rainy Days in Summer: 8

During the summer, visitors to North Cascades National Park can traverse switchback mountainpasses with views of snow covered glaciers. The summer time may be the best time to go because most high-elevation trails are finally clear of snow. If you’d rather enjoy dramatic views without breaking a sweat, the 127-mile North Cascades Highway showcases the park’s towering waterfalls and alpine forests.

Seattle, Washington

Average Summer Temperature: 53 to 70 degrees

Average Rainy Days in Summer: 4

If you’re craving an urban feel after days of hiking through the wilderness of North Cascades, head to Seattle. Visit historic open air markets such as the century old Pikes Place Market. Take in panoramic views at the top of the Space Needle. If you want to get wet, paddle board in the gentle waters of Puget Sound. Stroll through Chihuly Garden and Glass, a museum featuring a complementary blend of plant life and glass sculptures by renowned artist Dale Chihuly.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Average Daily Summer Temperature: 52 to 66 degrees

Average Rainy Days in Summer: 5

A small coastal town, Cannon Beach features a stunning pacific coast oceanfront, and quaint downtown with a variety of dining and shopping choices. Explore the tidal pools surrounding Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack that is one of Oregon’s most famous landmarks. The formation is teeming with interesting marine life. Have a beer at Public Coast Brewing, one of 14 locations on the North Coast Craft Beer Trail.

San Francisco, California

Average Summer Temperature: 55 to 71 degrees

Average Rainy Days in Summer: 0

Filled with iconic cultural, culinary and natural experiences, San Francisco is the perfect urban summer getaway. Rent a bike to cross the Golden Gate Bridge for some of the best views of the city. If you’re brave, take a ferry across San Francisco Bay to Alcatraz for a night tour of the famed prison complete with blanketing fog and ghost stories. Pass through the iconic Dragon Gate to explore the shops and incredible cuisine of Chinatown, the oldest enclave of Chinese immigrants outside of Asia.

San Diego, California

Average Summer Temperatures: 66 to 75 degrees

Average Rainy Days in Summer: 0

Head to this temperate, coastal city for water activities and museum touring. San Diego is home to more than 30 beaches, the San Diego Air & Space Museum, and the San Diego Museum of Art. Within the 1,200-acre artfully landscaped Balboa park, known as the Smithsonian of the west, there are 17 world-class museums. Go sea lion spotting at Children’s Pool, Shell Beach and Sunny Jim Cave. 

Big Sur, California

Average Summer Temperatures: 50 to 75 degrees

Average Rainy Days in Summer: 0

A paradisal 100-mile stretch of California’s coast line, Big Sur offers some of the most beautiful ocean views in the U.S. Stroll past rock formations and blue waters on Pfeiffer Beach and the beaches of Garrapata State Park. Hike through coastal forests at Point Lobos State Park and past waterfalls on the Salmon Creek Trail and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail. Eat at the Michelin, seaside restaurant Sierra Mar. Take in all of Big Sur by driving the winding Highway 1.

Aspen, Colorado

Average Summer Temperatures: 46 to 75 degrees

Average Rainy Days in Summer: 7

A mountain town that is home to the most well-known ski slopes in the U.S., Aspen is booming during the winter. The summer is the perfect time to visit to avoid the crowds while still enjoying the outdoors. Go rafting on the Fork, Arkansas or Colorado rivers or stroll through the downtown Aspen Farmers Market. Breathe in the mountain air and get your heart rate up while hiking up the Maroon Bells Peaks.

Don’t let an emergency dampen your summer plans. Travel insurance by Allianz Global Assistance refunds covered expenses in the event your trip is canceled and delayed. Our benefits also include reimbursement for covered expenses incurred due to baggage loss or delay, and emergency medical benefits. Get a quote today to find out how we can protect you on your travels.

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