Summer Hidden Gems: Five Places to Visit This Summer in the US

You might not think much about your credit score until it impacts you. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves adventure or you prefer to enjoy time spent out-of-doors at a slower pace, summer is the perfect season to make lasting memories exploring new places with loved ones. These five places to visit this summer in the US offer something for everyone.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Coastal charm abounds in the picturesque New England town of Bar Harbor, Maine. If you’re seeking a cool summer getaway in the Northeast, then this is the spot for you.

Enjoy breathtaking views from every outdoor vantage point, whether exploring downtown while shopping or dining, hiking on one of the 120 miles of trails in Acadia National Park, whale watching, or making your way across the land bridge to the uninhabited Bar Island to scope out a wide-angle view of the townscape from across the water.

Dripping Springs, Texas

Located approximately 30 miles outside of Austin, Dripping Springs is not only the gateway to Texas Hill Country, but also a portal to scores of locally-produced libations.

The small city of just over 7,000 residents is home to a considerable number of vineyards, wineries, distilleries, and breweries giving visitors and residents alike a taste of the local liquid flair. Line up your tasting experiences and then also infuse the trip with a shopping spree along Mercer Street’s many galleries and quaint shops.

While in town reconnect with nature on a hike out to Hamilton Pool. Hamilton Pool features a picturesque waterfall that spills over an enormous 50-foot limestone ledge into an aquamarine pool of water that has some limited access for swimming.

Combine the surrounding beauty with all there is to see and do here and you’re sure to agree that Dripping Springs deserves its many accolades as the Wedding Capital of Texas.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Adventure awaits in the mountain town of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, most known as the home of Dollywood, a top destination for families since 1986. In addition to Dollywood, Pigeon Forge is teeming with other fun attractions.
Experience the wind in your hair on one of the many Alpine mountain coasters in town. Cool off in one of several themed water parks. Find your sea legs as you venture through timeless history in the Titanic Museum. Ride rollercoasters. Dodge swooping pterodactyls on the Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride. And discover the fun of another 80-plus family-rated adventures in Pigeon Forge.
What’s more: travel just seven miles south of Pigeon Forge to find yourself in the mountain town of Gatlinburg - home of the SkyBridge. At 680 feet, it is the longest pedestrian cable bridge in America. Are you brave enough to cross it as it sways in the wind?

Frankenmuth, Michigan

Deep under the thumb of Michigan’s famous mitten lies the heart of Little Bavaria, otherwise known as Frankenmuth. And while a visit to a town with roots as German as this one is a no-brainer for Oktoberfest, summer in Frankenmuth is also a wonderful time to explore the beautiful architecture, delectable Bavarian cuisine, exciting attractions, and fun events in this German-like enclave in the Great Lakes State.

At the city’s popular Summer Music Fest each August, average daytime highs reach into the lower 80s and average nighttime temperatures drop to the lower 60s. For even cooler temperatures, each June a deeper dive into the original culture of the community can be enjoyed at the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival featuring Old World Bavarian cuisine, German activities and attractions, and traditional German music and Polka bands.

Sequim, Washington

Sequim, Washington (pronounced “sqwim”) is an outdoor lover’s paradise located along the Dungeness River approximately three hours northwest of Seattle. The area is known for receiving less rainfall than any other area in the Puget Sound – an important fact considering Sequim is known as the Lavender Capital of the North American Continent.

By mid-to-late June you can hop on the Sequim Lavender Trail by way of automobile or bike to explore the vibrant blooms of nine unique lavender farms. Wander the u-cut fields collecting blooms of your own, shop for lavender gifts, and learn how essential lavender oils are distilled.

Indulge in local cuisine in the shadow of the Olympic Mountains after exploring Olympic National Park, take a drive through Olympic Game Farm to feed the animals right from your car, and pack a picnic for a peaceful visit to the New Dungeness Lighthouse.

Summer Vacations and Getaways

Summer is meant for vacations and getaways, whether the trips are long in duration or short. Travel off the beaten path this summer to these five uniquely wonderful spots in the US to make memories of a lifetime.

There’s no better way to spend your coveted travel points than with an exciting trip to someplace new this summer. Make sure to check out Compare Credit's recommended travel cards to ensure you have the best credit card for all of your summer adventures!