We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.
For most avid travelers, summer isn’t summer if you’re not spending every waking weekend hour roasting by the ocean. And while we appreciate a sandy getaway as much as the next well-tanned globetrotter, we also know that there’s more to do and see than just the beach come summertime.
Of the many incredible destinations already on our summer bucket list, it’s the holidays of the non-beach variety that our editors are most excited about. From desert road trips to mountainside getaways, we’re hitting every corner that’s not along the coast. Swipe through for your alternative summer destinations.
Saugerties, New York | Kristin Limoges, Beauty Editor
I’m super psyched to check out The Villa at Saugerties, which is owned by this lovely couple Amanda Zaslow and Joe Moseley. He’s formerly with the Food Network, she’s an interior designer, and together they’ve created this insanely beautiful, four-guestroom, quirky Mediterranean-style house. It’s just two hours from New York City; seemingly dropped in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains. They even do these Saturday night barn dinners, where they invite guests into their private home (the barn on the 3.6 acre estate). I mean, doesn’t that just sound like the dreamiest dream?
California Road Trip | Alyssa Clough, Social Media Editor
I’m going on a quick road trip from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and Palm Springs (yes, in the summer heat). I’m excited to see and explore the tiny desert towns—planning on doing some hiking, hitting the pool, sifting through vintage shops (of course), and staying in incredible Airbnbs and design-focused hotels.
Amenia, New York | Lahaina Alcantara, Digital Photo Editor
I’m really looking forward to heading back to Troutbeck. I spent a magical weekend there this winter when snow covered the ground and can’t wait to see all of the life brought back to the surrounding woods—and to jump into their newly opened pool! The property was renovated last year and impeccably designed by Alexandra Champalimaud. It’s both comfortable and luxurious at the same time.
Troutbeck has historical significance, too. It’s been “home for centuries to romantics, naturalists, humanists and poets”—aka, the likes of Emerson and Thoreau used to hang out there back in the day. That’s a pretty incredible endorsement of any getaway.
Finger Lakes, New York | Elly Leavitt, Associate Digital Editor
A few of my friends have birthdays around the same time this year, so we’re using that as an opportunity to get out of the city for a weekend and head up to the Finger Lakes. The area is (conveniently) known for its wineries and I’m super excited to explore a different part of New York state! We’ve been looking to book a house on Airbnb, though one of our editors makes a strong case for staying at the Inns of Aurora.
Brattleboro, Vermont | Mackenzie Dunn, Contributing Writer
I always look forward to some time spent up at my extended family’s home in Brattleboro, Vermont over the summer. Since it’s such a small state, there’s a lot to explore without having to go too far. Plus, it never seems to get too hot. The snow has melted off the ski mountains, which makes for some excellent places to hike and take in the lush green scenery. To me, Vermont in the summer is literally a breath of fresh air. Maybe I should consider getting paid to move there?
Steamboat Springs, Colorado | Hayley Squire, Email Marketing Manager
I’m going to a joint bachelor/bachelorette party in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. My brother lives in Denver so I’ve been there a number of times, but this little destination is about three hours northwest of Denver and supposedly beautiful in the summer. I will be spending my four days there biking and hiking, soaking up the sun in the hot springs, drinking at the breweries, and definitely taking in the views from up in the air.
Rome, Italy | Anna Kocharian, Digital Editor
I’m headed to Rome this summer and I can’t wait to eat my way through the entire city. There is this Mom-and-Pop restaurant in my favorite neighborhood of Trastevere, which serves the most delicious fried zucchini blossoms—I had them on a previous trip a few years back and still dream about them to this day.
Epping, New Hampshire | Lydia Geisel, Contributing Writer
There have been very few summers where I haven’t gone to Epping, New Hampshire. My family has been staying in the same quiet village and in the same sweet cottages there for generations now. We’re essentially out in the middle of the forest and none of the homes there have changed since they were built in late 1800s/early 1900s. It’s honestly like stepping back in time.
Still planning your summer trips? See more of our favorite travel spots:
Add These Pink Sand Beaches To Your Summer Travel List ASAP How to Have the Perfect Montauk Weekend This Summer Designers On Their Favorite Summer Vacation Spots
Get all the news you never knew you needed when you sign up here.