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Which Entrance to Yellowstone National Park Should I Take?

Planning a vacation to yellowstone involves many details, one of which is deciding how you will enter the park..

With 2.2 million acres ⎯ larger than the size of Rhode Island ⎯ the park is enormous, which is why it’s a good idea to figure out what you want to see and know which entrance is closest to those sights. There are five Yellowstone entrances ⎯ North Entrance, Northeast Entrance, South Entrance, East Entrance and West Entrance . Here are the details on each to help you plan your adventure to the country’s oldest national park.

• North Entrance, open year-round, brings you to Mammoth Hot Springs
• Northeast Entrance puts you at doorstep of park’s wildlife
• East Entrance brings you to Yellowstone Lake
• South Entrance allows you to tackle two national parks in one day
• West Entrance brings you to geyser paradise

1. North Entrance Brings You to Mammoth Hot Springs

Want to experience some of the West’s most spectacular scenery in a town that can feel like a cross between Northern Exposure and Animal Planet, given its wild neighbors living up the street in Yellowstone?

Head to Gardiner, Mont., just five miles from Yellowstone’s steaming terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs, one of the park’s many natural wonders. Sitting at the only year-round entrance to the world’s first national park, pretty much everything in Gardiner is colorful from the scenery and people to the names of dishes on menus, adding a poetic slant to your visit.

If you’re coming from the Pacific Northwest or even Missoula, Mont., the North Entrance, along US 89, may be the one for you. Situated in Gardiner, Mont. , a lively small western town, the North Entrance is open year round and is the only way to reach the park’s northeastern border in the winter.

Be Wowed by Mammoth Hot Springs

From the North Entrance, you are well-situated to see the park’s incredible wildlife, as well as the famed Mammoth Hot Springs and the historic hotel and dining room located near the hot springs. You also pass the Boiling River turnoff on the stretch of road from Gardiner to Mammoth. In the Boiling River , one of two sanctioned swimming areas in the park, you can swim in an area where warm hot springs water enters the Yellowstone River.

Explore Lamar Valley

From Mammoth, you can head east on the northern most road in the park to get to the expansive Lamar Valley , referred to as the Serengeti of the United States, because of the extraordinary diversity of mammals living there. It is the Lamar Valley that the first wolves were reintroduced to the park in 1995-97. It is also home to grizzly bears, black bears, bison and elk, among many others. Bring your binoculars!

2. Northeast Entrance Puts You at Doorstep of Park’s Wildlife

Closest to Cooke City, Mont. , and its sister village Silver Gate, this entrance gives you the best access to Yellowstone’s legendary Lamar Valley where grizzlies, black bears, bison and wolves roam. The tiny outpost of Cooke City (year-round population is 100) has a downtown that spans only a few blocks but offers good dining and lodging options

Closed in the winter time, the Northeast Entrance makes sense to enter if you are coming from the northeast side of Montana like Billings or Red Lodge, Mont. From Billings, you can take I-90 west to US 212 west and from Red Lodge, Mont., take US 212 west. Driving US 212 west is arguably the most dramatic route to enter the park.

Be Amazed By Beartooth Pass

With its sweeping alpine vistas, Beartooth Highway , along US 212, is the closest you may get to feeling as if you are on top of the world. Every corner of the road presents a more incredible view than the previous. Head south over Beartooth Pass, before dropping into Cooke City and Silver Gate, the closest towns to the Northeast Entrance.

Fuel Up in Cooke City

Cooke City itself is a tiny town but offers a number of services from lodging to restaurants and gas. From it, you can drive to the Northeast Entrance is a matter of minutes. Once you go through the entrance gate, the Lamar Valley unfolds before your eyes. Home to bison, grizzly bears, black bears, wolves and elk , plan to spend some time along the roadside pull-offs, viewing the animals from a safe distance . You’ll find the Lamar Valley will give you an overwhelming sense of what the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem looked like before white pioneers settled there more than 150 years ago.

3. East Entrance Brings You to Yellowstone Lake

The East Entrance brings you right to the Yellowstone Lake , the largest mountain lake at such a high elevation of 7,733 feet. It stretches 20 miles long and 14 miles across and its shorelines are dotted with geothermal features . From there, the West Thumb Geyser Basic and Old Faithful lie to the southeast and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to the north.

To get to the park’s East Entrance, you will pass through Cody, Wyo. , founded by Buffalo Bill Cody himself. While Cody is 53 miles from the East Entrance, it is the closest town to the entrance.

Have an Authentic Western Experience

Cody is an Old Western town that celebrates its rich history through daily summer rodeos and incredible museums that make up the Buffalo Bill Center of the West . With its historic downtown and numerous family friendly activities, including the Cody trolley tour where you can learn more about Cody’s history, it is well worth a stop for a day or two. Admission to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West is good for two days, so take your time exploring.

Buy a cowboy hat downtown at the third-generation-owned Wayne’s Boots or Boot Barn up the hill and head to two of Cody’s family friendly venues that offer cowboy music during the evenings. The Cody Cattle Company has a really casual atmosphere where kids can run around the establishment’s wooden picnic tables. Dan Miller’s Cowboy Music Revue is a more upscale  show that has moved next to the Irma Hotel in downtown Cody. The show starts at 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday throughout the summer.

Stop at Buffalo Bill Dam

From Cody to the entrance, you will take the Yellowstone Highway, also known as US 16-20-14, past the enormous Buffalo Bill Dam six miles from town. Completed in 1910, it was the tallest dam in the world then. Today, it supplies water to 93,000 acres of farmland in the Bighorn Basin, bringing to life alfalfa, sugar beets, oats, barley and beans. The dam’s visitor center is open daily May 1-Sept. 30. From there, you will continue through the valley, eventually, reaching Sylvan Pass, which is RV-friendly and tops off at 8,350 feet.

4. South Entrance Allows You To Tackle Two National Parks in One Day

If you are looking to tackle two national parks in one day, the South Entrance is for you. From Jackson, Wyo. , you can stop at the awe-inspiring Grand Teton National Park along your 57-mile drive north on the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Highway up to Yellowstone. Plus, if you are staying in Jackson, Wyo., the South Entrance is the easiest entrance to access Yellowstone.

Jackson itself is an incredible mountain town that attracts skiers to its steep slopes in the winter and throngs of tourists in the summer. Blending the Old West with upscale boutiques, Jackson is the ritziest of all Wyoming towns. But it has a full range of hotels and eateries, catering to every type of traveler.

Once you enter through the South Entrance, you will drive along a stretch of the park’s road without any turnoffs for more than 20 miles. But once you hit the West Thumb Geyser Basin, you can stretch your legs and explore some of the park’s amazing geothermal features. From there, head west to view Old Faithful or continue north along the shores of Yellowstone Lake and on up as far as the Lamar Valley, which stretches to the Montana border and is known for its abundance of large mammals, including wolves, bison and bears.

5. West Entrance Brings You to Geyser Paradise

If geysers are on the top of your Yellowstone hit list, you may want to enter the park via US 20 and the West Entrance, as it puts you in the heart of the park’s geyser country.

This entrance is the park’s busiest, so it’s no wonder that West Yellowstone, Mont., is a bustling gateway with dining, shopping and attractions for travelers. Located just across the Wyoming border in Montana, West Yellowstone is a convenient entrance town for those coming from Idaho or western Montana, especially Missoula. Visitors will find Wild West flavor, plenty of lodging and a mix of cultural and outdoor activities.

Welcome to Geyserville

When you enter the park through the West Entrance, you will drive 14 miles until you reach Madison, a jumping off point for geyser basins to the north and south. Head south and you will see the largest geyser basin in Yellowstone called the Lower Geyser Basin, which includes Fountain Paint Pot, Firehole Lake Drive area and the Great Fountain Geyser. You’ll want to stop at the Midway Geyser Basin, slightly south, which is home to the dazzling Grand Prismatic Spring , which has resident bacteria that creates rainbow-like rings in the spring.

Further south is the Upper Geyser Basin, which is home to Old Faithful , Biscuit Basin and others. At least 150 geysers exist in 1 square mile here.

Up north you’ll find Norris Geyser Basin , the park’s oldest and hottest thermal area with two walkable zones. It’s home to the Steamboat Geyser, which is the world’s tallest geyser at 300-plus feet. If you drive farther north, up to the park’s northern border with Montana, you can explore the boardwalks of Mammoth Hot Springs, a two-tier travertine wonder.

West Yellowstone Attractions

There’s also a lot to do when you are ready to take a break from sightseeing in the park. Minutes from the West Entrance sits West Yellowstone, Mont. , home the Grizzly &Wolf Discovery Center , as well as lodging and dining.

Catch a show at the Playmill Theatre or study up for your park trip at Yellowstone Giant Screen Theatre, which shows IMAX movies about Yellowstone and beyond.  It also is home to a number of well-equipped RV parks, which make it a fantastic place to park your RV and launch your tours of the park via your car.

Getting a park map is key to understanding where all of Yellowstone’s scenic attractions are located, as well as their proximity to the park’s entrances. You’ll get a free map when you go through an entrance station, but if you want to plan in advance, purchase a Trails Illustrated map of Yellowstone from REI.com .

Pssst. Want to download an insider’s guide to Yellowstone, where to stay and what to do? Order our free stunning Yellowstone Trip Planner filled with an inspiring itinerary, gorgeous photographs and everything you need to plan your dream vacation.

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• Crazy Horse Memorial, honoring the heritage, and culture of North American Indians
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25 Best Places to Visit in August USA (2024)

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: July 9, 2024

Wondering where to go for your August vacation? This guide to the best places to visit in August USA edition highlights perfect destinations for the ultimate summer experience. Whether you’re looking for scenic national parks , vibrant cities, or relaxing beach towns, find the spot that suits your summer plans.

Table of Contents

Top Places To Visit in August USA Edition

August is the month for outdoor adventures and festivals across the USA. Each place has its own menu of exciting activities. For example, Hawaii’s Big Island is a snorkeling and hiking paradise, Glacier National Park is for wildlife spotting and backcountry adventures, and San Francisco is festival central and full of iconic landmarks.

Mackinac Island has history and natural beauty in spades, and being car-free is a bonus. Asheville is festival-central and full of art and music, and Memphis has a music scene and foodie delights. So whether you want to relax, explore, or indulge in local culture, August in the USA has got you covered.

1. Big Island, Hawai’i

The Big Island of Hawai’i is a paradise in itself with its many landscapes and activities. Warm weather in August makes exploring its beaches and white sand shores even more thrilling. Island hopping and snorkeling in the clear waters are at their best this time of year, with predictable conditions for underwater adventures. Imagine swimming with marine life with the sun shining overhead, and every moment is a photo op.

If you love to hike, the Kilauea Iki Trail in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is for you. Not only are the views stunning, but it’s also a great stargazing spot. The trail, with its unique volcanic landscape, becomes a celestial wonderland at night. And don’t forget the island’s environmental diversity with 8 of the 13 climate zones, so every corner of the island is a new adventure waiting to be had.

2. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in Montana is a nature lover’s paradise. With trails cleared of ice and snow in August, it’s the perfect time to see the park’s highlights. You can hike glaciers, mountains, and scenic views, and don’t miss the Sun Road, Granite Park Chalet, and the Continental Divide. These are some of the most spectacular sights and landscapes in the US.

Outdoor types can include hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. The Swiftcurrent Lookout hike is a must-do and has one of the best views from the Continental Divide. Wildlife spotting is also a highlight, with mountain goats, bighorn sheep, grizzly bears, and bald eagles.

For those who want to get away from the crowds venturing into the backcountry, it is a peaceful and less crowded experience that is perfect for horseback riding.

3. San Francisco, California

August brings history, festivals, and waterfront views to San Francisco . The city’s Mediterranean climate means pleasant weather to explore landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Downtown is festival central with the Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival in Golden Gate Park, which is music, food, wine, and activism all rolled into one.

Local festivals are part of the fun. The Chinatown Music Festival has free performances by traditional and contemporary artists, and the San Francisco Fringe Festival has a variety of stage shows. Whether you’re strolling through the charming cobblestone streets of Chinatown or enjoying the waterfront views from Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco has an August adventure for you.

4. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park has geothermal wonders and wildlife in abundance. August’s weather is perfect to hike over 900 miles of trails. Famous sights like Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River are a must see and a geological wonder.

The park has the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states, including bears, wolves, bison, and elk.

Educational programs at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center will give you a deeper understanding of the park’s wildlife and ecosystem. Whether you’re a hiker or a wildlife buff, Yellowstone has endless to discover.

5. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville , nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a nature and art lover’s paradise. Some of the top attractions in Asheville are the Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers scenic drives with views, and Mount Mitchell Summit, which offers cooler temperatures and views. Hiking trails abound, with trails to beautiful spots like Schoolhouse Falls and Skinny Dip Falls.

August is also festival time. The Mountain Dance and Folk Festival is all about local music and dance and a peek into the region’s heritage. Art and food festivals are part of the fun and make Asheville a perfect summer vacation spot.

6. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island is car-free and takes you back in time. Bicycles, boats, and horse-drawn carriages are the main modes of transportation and add to the island’s charm. August’s weather is perfect for biking around the island or taking a boat ride on Lake Michigan.

The Mackinac Island Fudge Festival is a sweet highlight, celebrating the island’s reputation as the Fudge Capital of the World. Public ferries provide easy access from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, making it a convenient and delightful summer destination.

7. Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park has it all. Coastal, forests, mountains, glaciers. August is the time to get out and enjoy it all through hiking, fishing, camping and kayaking.

The park has everything for every nature nut. Whether you’re hiking through old-growth forests, fishing in the clear waters, or camping under the stars, Olympic National Park will be an adventure to remember.

8. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is all about unspoiled beaches and natural beauty. In August, the beaches are at their peak, with top-rated beaches like Nauset Beach, Coast Guard Beach, and Sandy Neck Beach drawing visitors from far and wide. Whale-watching tours give you the chance to see these giants up close, and lavender farms in Harwich are in full bloom.

Mayflower Beach in Dennis and Race Point Beach in Provincetown are great for family time, with calm waters and vast tidal flats. If you want to get a little more adventurous Cahoon Hollow Beach in Wellfleet has dramatic cliffs and a beach bar, ‘The Beachcomber’. Cape Cod in August is relaxing and exciting, and it is the perfect summer getaway.

9. Bar Harbor, Maine

Just outside Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor becomes the hub of adventure in August. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and biking are ways to see the coastal and forest landscapes. Whale-watching tours give you the chance to see these giants in their natural habitat.

Acadia National Park has plenty of hiking opportunities and ranger led programs to guide you through. Wildlife spotting is a big plus with deer, red fox and numerous bird species to see. Bar Harbor in August is a nature lover’s paradise.

10. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe becomes a summer playground for water sports and beach activities. August is the perfect time to get out on the water kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing. Rent a speedboat or jet ski and explore the hidden beaches and coves and add some adventure to your visit.

The South Lake Tahoe Bike Path is a scenic ride with access to the best beaches and is family-friendly. For a more chill experience, sunbathing and beach games on Tahoe’s sand beaches are the way to go. Lake Tahoe in August is all about fun in the sun.

11. Park City, Utah

Park City nestled in the Utah mountains is a mix of thrill and tranquility. Hot air balloon rides give you breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and nearby lakes offer water activities like stand-up paddleboarding and fly fishing.

The Deer Valley Resort has a free early summer concert series on Wednesday nights where you can enjoy live music and picnics in the August weather. Park City in August is a sweet spot for everyone.

12. Boulder, Colorado

Boulder is a vibrant city with a wealth of cultural experiences and outdoor activities. Bands on the Bricks is a live concert series that runs through mid-August. The series features all kinds of music, from reggae to rock. The Colorado Shakespeare Festival also runs through mid-August, so you can get your cultural fix.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Royal Arch Trail and Enchanted Mesa are hiking trails with great views and challenging hikes. Craft beer lovers can try local brews at the Boulder Craft Beer Fest. Boulder is a fun and diverse destination in August.

13. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island is a nature lover’s haven. August is the high season to visit with ocean views, forest trails, and wildlife spotting. The park’s 45 miles of motor-free carriage roads are perfect for biking and a peaceful way to see the landscape.

Hiking, kayaking and driving on the scenic park roads are popular activities. Cadillac Mountain and the Gorham Mountain Loop are the must see natural attractions with stunning views and experiences. Acadia in August is a nature lover’s paradise.

14. San Diego, California

With sunshine pouring down, San Diego is a paradise in August, with beautiful beaches and world-class attractions. La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach are the places to sunbathe and swim, and they have perfect summer weather. The San Diego Zoo, with its many animals and gardens, is a must-see.

Balboa Park is home to the zoo and the peaceful Japanese Friendship Garden and is a cultural hub with many museums and performing arts venues. San Diego in August is good for families and solo travelers alike, and it offers endless fun and relaxation.

15. Door County, Wisconsin

Door County in Wisconsin has history and natural beauty. With 300 miles of shoreline, it’s a water and beach lover’s paradise. The area has been inhabited since the 1600s with French explorers like Jean Nicolet passing through.

Cherry picking is a big deal in August as Door County is one of the top cherry-producing regions in the world. The history and natural beauty make it a unique summer destination.

16. Seattle, Washington

August in Seattle is a mix of urban and outdoor excitement. The city has concerts with big name artists like Alanis Morissette and Foo Fighters. The Seafair air show with the Blue Angels is a big event that draws crowds.

For outdoor lovers, the Mount Rainier Day Tour has hiking opportunities with departures from downtown Seattle. The Duwamish River Festival has kayak rides and kids’ activities to celebrate river restoration in a fun way.

Seattle in August is something for everyone.

17. Portland, Oregon

In Portland August is a month to get immersed in the Pacific Northwest culture. The Pickathon music festival has a diverse lineup of artists and a lively atmosphere. The PDX Adult Soapbox Derby has carts racing down the hill and is a fun summer event.

Foodies will love the Jade Night Market with over 100 international vendors and food, music and goods. The Elephant Garlic Fest near Portland has garlic ice cream, a must see for adventurous eaters.

Portland’s Dahlia Festival has beautiful flowers and adds color to the summer landscape.

18. Glynn County, Georgia

Glynn County has history and natural beauty. The historic Fort Frederica National Monument on St. Simons Island is a must-see and a glimpse into the past. The Brunswick Old Town Historic District is another area with historic buildings and charming streets.

Nature lovers have plenty to explore in Glynn County. The Jekyll Island Historic District is a National Historic Landmark that’s definitely worth a visit. Then there’s the St. Simons Lighthouse, which offers not only beautiful views but also a slice of history. And don’t miss the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, a rice plantation from the 1800s that gives you a glimpse into the past.

These are just a few of the gems you can discover. So if you’re into history and nature, Glynn County in August is the perfect spot for you.

19. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks has unspoiled beaches and lots of activities. August has seasonal events like the Outer Banks Pirate Festival and Watermelon Festival. Families can do Corolla Horse Tours, mini-golf and dolphin tours.

Water sports enthusiasts can kayak, deep sea fish and kiteboard. Local museums like the Wright Brothers National Memorial and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum are a cool escape from the summer heat. Vacation rentals have private pools and beach access so the Outer Banks is a summer vacation paradise.

20. The Smoky Mountains, Tennessee & North Carolina

The Smoky Mountains have breathtaking views and lots of outdoor activities. August’s warm and sunny days with afternoon rain showers are perfect for getting out. The park has over 2,100 miles of streams and rivers to cool off in and wildflowers in the meadows.

For hikers, the Gregory Bald Trail and Ramsey Cascades Trail are great, with beautiful scenery. Fontana Lake is great for kayaking, and Cades Cove Loop Road is a peaceful bike ride on vehicle-free mornings.

The Smoky Mountains in August is a mix of calm and adventure in the mountain towns.

21. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

In August, the Berkshires become a cultural and outdoor haven. The Berkshire Theatre Group and Williamstown Theater Festival have performances all month. Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, the longest-running international dance festival in the US, adds to the region’s cultural fabric.

If you’re into outdoor activities, the Berkshires won’t disappoint. You can hike the Appalachian Trail, ride mountain coasters, zipline through the treetops, or even go whitewater rafting for a thrill. And if you’re a music lover, Tanglewood is a must-visit. It’s the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and hosts concerts by popular artists, making music an integral part of the Berkshires’ experience. In August, the Berkshires is where culture meets nature in the best way possible.

22. Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is a charming beach town with perfectly preserved Victorian architecture and beaches. The streets are lined with colorful houses and are fun to walk and explore. The beaches have soft sand and are great for sunbathing and swimming.

Whale-watching cruises are also available in August, allowing visitors to get up close to and interact with marine life. Boutique shops and restaurants add to Cape May’s charm, making it a great place for a summer vacation. Cape May in August offers history, beauty, and relaxation.

23. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis has music, food and culture. Elvis Week in August draws fans from around the world with concerts, film screenings and more celebrating the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The city’s barbecue is legendary with culinary experiences that will delight your taste buds.

Farmers’ markets often have live music, so shopping is fun. Memphis has music everywhere with many festivals featuring local and national talent. Memphis in August is a city that’s alive and delicious.

24. Boston, MA

In August, Boston will have a mix of historic landmarks and lively neighborhoods. The Freedom Trail links many sites of the American Revolution and is a history walk. Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a fun place to shop and dine, and it hosts free public events and concerts.

The Rose Kennedy Greenway, a new park from the North End to Chinatown, has art, a carousel, and seasonal beer gardens. Historic Downtown Boston has taverns and Irish pubs with live music and nightlife. Boston in August is a city that has both history and modern fun.

25. South Haven, Michigan

South Haven, Michigan , in August, is a real treat. I’ve been, and it’s like walking into a summer fantasy. The weather is just right—warm enough to enjoy the beach but not so hot you’re sweating. The beaches are gorgeous, with soft sand and clear water that makes you want to jump in. You can spend your days lounging by the lake, soaking up the sun, and maybe even trying your hand at water sports.

But it’s not just about the beach. It has this relaxed, laid-back feel to it that makes you feel right at home. The downtown area has cute shops, great eateries, and cozy cafes where you can grab a coffee and watch the world go by. There are also some amazing local wineries and breweries if you want to do a little tasting tour.

One of the best parts of August is the National Blueberry Festival. It’s a hoot – live music, parades, and all the blueberry goodies you can imagine. Seriously, if you love blueberries, you’ll be in blueberry heaven. And the sunsets over Lake Michigan are pure magic.

So, if you’re looking for a place to relax, have fun, and soak up some serious summer vibes, South Haven in August should definitely be on your list. You won’t regret it.

Best Places to Visit in August, USA 2024

August is a great time to visit these destinations because you can enjoy warm weather, fewer crowds, and a range of festivals and outdoor activities. It’s the perfect month for travel!

Yes, these destinations are designed to be affordable, offering various activities for different budgets.

Yes, you can expect good weather in August for outdoor activities and exploration in most featured destinations.

Yes, these destinations are family-friendly as they offer a variety of activities suitable for a summer vacation with family.

To find more information about these destinations, visit the official tourism websites or local visitor centers for detailed insights on each location.

The USA has a ton of affordable places to go in August. From the beautiful beaches of Cape Cod and the charm of Cape May to the natural beauty of Yellowstone and the culture of Memphis, there really is something for everyone. Each place has its own special experience, whether you want to relax, get excited, or a little of both. So pack your bags, hit the road, and make some summer memories.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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1 thought on “25 Best Places to Visit in August USA (2024)”

Wow, what a fantastic guide! I love how you’ve highlighted diverse destinations across the USA, from beaches to national parks and vibrant cities. Your detailed descriptions really bring each place to life. This list is incredibly helpful for planning a memorable August vacation. Thanks for the great recommendations!

Why do Americans keep bringing guns through airport security?

Five Caribbean vacationers and now a congresswoman have been charged with firearms violations in recent months.

Michael Lee Evans remembered he had misplaced the ammunition clip for a pistol years ago, but he didn’t expect to see it come out of his luggage. It was an even bigger surprise for the 72-year-old from Texas to learn he could be facing years in prison for bringing the bullets into Turks and Caicos.

Evans said a December anniversary trip turned into a “nightmare” when he and his wife, Sharon Evans, were stopped by security at Providenciales International Airport. He was arrested and taken to the police station, but it wasn’t until he talked to an attorney provided by the local government that he realized the severity of the situation.

“I asked him, ‘How much trouble am I in?’” Evans recalled, and the attorney answered, “You are in significant risk.”

Turks and Caicos prohibits the possession and use of unlicensed firearms and ammunition under an ordinance that has led to at least five American arrests in the British territory over the past seven months, including Evans. In interviews with The Washington Post or reports by other media, each of those travelers have said they packed ammunition by accident. That was the same explanation that Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.) gave after she was charged with bringing an unloaded handgun to Dulles International Airport on June 28.

The incidents in Turks and Caicos tie into a trend with U.S. travelers. The number of firearms detected and intercepted at U.S. airports has risen for the past 10 years , with the exception of 2020, when travel diminished with the start of the pandemic. This summer, with a record-breaking number of Americans traveling, more guns and ammo are making their way into airports.

Flying with an unloaded gun and ammunition is legal in the United States, but only in a checked bag. Transportation Security Administration regulations require that any guns and ammunition be packed and locked inside a hard-sided case and that travelers declare them at baggage drop. Attempting to bring either in a carry-on bag is illegal, as well as dangerous for TSA agents and other travelers, TSA spokesperson Alexa Lopez said.

“The number-one reason we hear from people, and I kid you not, is ‘I forgot I had it in my bag,’” Lopez said.

Though shootings inside airports are rare because of fortified security, there have been reports of shootings in pre-security areas as recently as November , when a woman inside Portland International Airport in Oregon was accused of firing a gun near a TSA checkpoint.

Tim Carey, law and policy adviser at Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Gun Violence Solutions, called the rise in Americans caught with improperly packed guns and ammunition a “perfect-storm situation” brought about by two factors: large-scale increases in U.S. gun ownership and states’ deregulation of firearm purchasing and possession.

In a Gallup poll last year, 30 percent of U.S. adults said they personally own a gun. A 2013 survey requested by the European Commission showed the same was true for only 5 percent of Europeans.

“There is a very justifiable increased scrutiny on Americans and guns in foreign places,” Carey said. Besides Turks and Caicos, he cited Mexico , which is suing five U.S. gun dealers for allegedly facilitating gun trafficking across the border.

Misses by TSA

Some of the Americans who have been detained in Turks and Caicos, such as Florida resident Sharitta Grier , passed through TSA checkpoints without being stopped. In response to Grier’s case, TSA acknowledged that rounds of ammunition inside a carry-on were probably missed at Orlando International Airport.

Oklahoma resident Ryan Watson was apprehended with ammunition in Turks and Caicos after clearing TSA in Oklahoma City. TSA officials at Will Rogers World Airport made changes , including additional training, in response to a review.

According to TSA, loose ammunition can be missed when there is no firearm present, which is why gun owners should start packing with an entirely empty bag each time they travel.

Though the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas had issued a warning about Turks and Caicos’s strict gun regulations last year, Sharon Evans said she and her husband “had no idea” about the law before their December trip.

Michael Lee Evans, who suffers from several health conditions, faced months of hearings and ultimately received a suspended 33-week sentence. Another American arrested in Turks and Caicos, Bryan Hagerich of Pennsylvania, had to wait more than 100 days in crowded jail cells and emergency apartment rentals before receiving a suspended 52-week sentence . Both received their sentences after U.S. leaders — including the governors of Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and Virginia and a bipartisan congressional delegation — advocated for the release of Americans.

Stateside, large GoFundMe campaigns and anxious social media posts raised money and awareness for those arrested. Most have paid fines and received suspended sentences.

In January, TSA reported that 2023 was a record-breaking year for guns flagged at security checkpoints. A total of 6,737 firearms were detected at airports across the country, about 93 percent of which were loaded. In the first quarter of this year, TSA intercepted 1,503 firearms.

Whether it’s intentional or inadvertent, trying to pass a gun through airport security has consequences for the gun owner. TSA officers don’t confiscate firearms, but they do call local law enforcement, which can then enforce fines or criminal charges that could lead to jail time, depending on local laws.

How state laws might be changing gun travel

Between 2019 and 2021, an estimated 7.5 million Americans became new gun owners. However, the vast majority of guns purchased during that time were bought by people who already owned one. On average, approximately 1.9 million firearms were purchased per month between January 2020 and April 2021. Just 300,000 of those went to first-time buyers.

“Following covid, there are millions of excess firearms relative to what we would have expected in a country already inundated with firearms,” said Michael D. Anestis, a professor at the Rutgers School of Public Health and executive director of the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center. “If there’s more firearms, then there are more opportunities for people to, even unintentionally, bring a firearm with them to a TSA checkpoint.”

A 2022 Supreme Court decision then opened the door for legal challenges against state attempts to regulate or limit how people can carry their firearms in public.

“States that are more conservative and more centered on a pro-gun facet have been virtually stripping away their entire regulations or imposing laws to prohibit future regulations,” Carey said. The looser regulations and habits around improper gun storage, he said, mean “we’re going to see more guns in places where they shouldn’t be.”

The Turks and Caicos travelers, for example, all lived in states with relatively scant firearm regulations, Carey said. Pennsylvania, Oklahoma and Virginia have neither safe-storage requirements nor license or permit requirements for firearm purchases, advocacy groups say.

An issue of responsibility

Beyond security issues, gun ownership experts say it’s simply poor form to skirt laws for travelers.

“To assume that just because you have a firearm, that you can take it anywhere, any place, any time … it’s just not responsible,” said Tom O’Connor, a board member of the Oregon-based Gun Owners for Responsible Gun Ownership. “If you’re going to travel, firearm outside the home, you need to know what the safety rules are, what the firearm regulations are.”

Hagerich, the traveler from Pennsylvania, describes himself as a responsible gun owner who had a slip-up. He keeps his firearms in a separate room protected by two sets of locks and keys and an alarm system, precisely out of an “utmost respect for firearms and ammunition.”

“I am one of the most responsible individuals with firearms. … So, it’s not like we’re reckless individuals here,” Hagerich told The Post in a phone interview. “I’m a human. I make mistakes. We all make mistakes. Unfortunately, mine was a mistake that had very, very, very severe consequences.”

But gun-owning advocates for gun safety said that forgetting a firearm while traveling — even when a gun owner takes great care otherwise — is reckless, especially given that there are legal ways to travel with them.

“I think it’s recklessness and disrespect for laws,” said Paul Kemp, a founding member of Gun Owners for Responsible Gun Ownership. As a lifelong gun owner, he said, “I’d be even more concerned about getting everything right.”

Peter Gurfein, 75, has hunted for more than 50 years and frequently travels with his firearms across the United States. Whenever he does, he said, he locks his guns in a four-padlocked, hard-sided case and gets to the airport four hours early to avoid any problems. TSA regulations are “very efficient,” he said. “There’s no excuse for someone not following TSA regulations.”

Gurfein said a responsible gun owner is one who knows where their gun is at all times. “That’s basic safety. And for someone to say they don’t know where their gun is, is one of the most irresponsible things I can imagine,” he said.

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