Coolcation: A Look at the Viral Summer Travel Trend Perfect for Beating the Heat
For a lot of people, nothing says summer quite like amusement parks, sunbathing, cool drinks and relaxing by a body of water. But encountering a heat wave on your trip can make it tough to enjoy all your favorite activities. The answer: A coolcation! Discover what has made this travel trend a popular option for summer vacations, plus five U.S. destinations perfect for your next coolcation.
What is a coolcation?
Locales with sun-kissed beaches continue to draw in visitors looking to unwind on the sand or take a dip in the lake or ocean. But some people are starting to forgo these hot spots for another alternative: a coolcation.
This new buzzword, which has grown in popularity among the travel industry, is used to describe a trip taken to a destination with a temperate or cooler climate. It has particularly become a trend for anyone looking to book a vacation in the summer. (Another travel trend blowing up among vacationers? Grocery store tourism).
Alaska is just one of the spots that have become a go-to spot for travelers in search of a coolcation. In fact, Travel Market Report shares that demand is at an all-time high for the state, with an estimated 1.64 million passengers planning to embark on 696 Alaskan cruises this year.
More international spots have included Iceland, Scotland and Finland. Latvia has also seen a rise in tourist numbers, according to Conde Nast Traveller. Even though the destinations lack tropical beaches and endless sunshine, it hasn’t stopped visitors from heading there.
Why people are taking coolcations
The main draw of a coolcation is, naturally, the more comfortable temperatures at the destination. For anyone who lives in a warmer climate or is looking to take a break from summer’s heat, these locations are particularly appealing.
This July, Reuters reported that heat records around the world continue to be broken. European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service said in a monthly bulletin that every month since June 2023 has ranked as Earth’s hottest.
But in these mild climate locations, you don’t have to let heat and humidity put a damper on the fun. Plenty of adventure still awaits! Hiking, cycling, kayaking and more are still offered, which means tourists can get their outdoor fix without breaking a sweat.
Some destinations still offer beach access too, but without the tropical climate. Keweenaw Peninsula in Michigan, for example, has been highlighted by many travel websites because of its mild temperatures, lush forests and proximity to Lake Superior. These selling points are drawing in visitors from all over the country.
American coolcation ideas
If you’re looking to take your own coolcation, you don’t have to shell out for a pricey Europe trip to reap the benefits! There are a number of destinations throughout the US that make for a perfect beat-the-heat getaway. Read on to find out the appeal of some of these stateside spots below. (Want to take a road trip to get there? Check out these helpful tips!)
Charlevoix, Michigan
Surrounded by four bodies of water, Charlevoix is perfect for adventure and relaxation thanks to its miles of scenic hiking trails and beautiful shorelines. This scenic Midwestern city also has a charming downtown that offers boutiques, galleries and delicious food not to be missed.
Lake Tahoe
You can bask in the natural beauty of “The Lake of the Sky!” This stunning oasis, located on the border of California and Nevada, is revered for its stunning azure color. The 2-million-year-old basin also features majestic mountain views, quaint boutiques, museums, parks and endless outdoor activities.
Bandon, Oregon
Coastal fun awaits in the “Cranberry Capital of Oregon.” Incorporated in 1891, this Pacific beach town has made quite a name for itself, thanks to its striking rock formations, scenic landscapes, year-round moderate temperatures and more. Visitors to the seaside Oregon spot will also find picturesque views of the sea and local fruit festivals.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Seaside charm beckons you to Bar Harbor. This Mount Desert Island village was originally called the town of Eden before being renamed in 1918, and still attracts visitors today with its colonial architecture, lush parks and sparkling blue waters. Cozy bed-and-breakfasts and miles of stunning shoreline also make this Maine town a delightful destination.
Olympia, Washington
Nature’s beauty is on full display in the capital of “The Evergreen State.” Once a simple trade hub, the city now boasts intriguing museums, historic theaters and first-class eateries, plus farmers markets, nearby national parks and more. Plus, the cool 70-degree temperatures make this Washington capital an ideal late-summer escape.
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