Why not take advantage of the last that summer has to offer, with an end-of-season getaway? We have the scoop on the best destinations for late summer across the U.S., whether you’re traveling as a couple, solo or with kids in tow.
We caught up with Bob Diener, co-founder of Hotels.com and Getaroom.com, to get his recommendations for the best late-summer travel destinations. “Late summer is a great time to travel, since rates are lower and it’s not as crowded,” he says. “Travel demand tends to slow down, especially in the latter half of August, and some schools start early to mid-August, so not as many families are traveling then.”
Diener’s best advice: Take advantage of better rates while demand is slower.
Budget-friendly spots to check out
On a budget? You can still find some great places to visit this summer. Las Vegas and Orlando, Florida, are the two best value destinations for late summer. “Vegas has tons of family-oriented entertainment, such as Circus Circus, with acts all day long, and many hotels with theme parks inside the hotel, and much more,” notes Diener. He tells us that both Orlando and New York City prices start to go down in mid-August. “You can find hotels such as the Americana and Days Hotel Broadway close to $100 a night in late August.”
Best spots for families
If you’ll be traveling with kids in tow, think about booking your late-summer trip to a sand-and-surf destination such as San Diego, Miami, or Tampa or St, Petersburg, Florida. “Rates go down, and kids love the beach,” says Diener. You can find large suites (great for families) in Orlando such as Westgate on Getaroom.com from $96 a night, and Downtown Disney Hotels such as the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista from $76 a night as summer starts to wind down.
Best spots for couples
Couples should check out New York and Washington, D.C., for a romantic late-summer getaway. “Rates are much lower in these cities, since summer is weak on business travel,” explains Diener. He also suggests San Francisco as a great couple’s romantic destination in late summer. “The weather is the same year-round, so not hot like other destinations; there are great restaurants, theater and shopping, and it’s amazing to watch the fog over the Golden Gate Bridge.”
Best spots for solo travelers
Los Angeles is a haven for singles, says Diener, so if you’re traveling solo (and looking to meet someone) you might want to book your trip there. “There are tons of adventure activities, lots of singles events, and more,” he notes. Not sure about L.A.? Diener tells us that single travelers may also enjoy Miami, thanks to the all-night entertainment at the clubs in South Beach.
Bob Diener’s favorite spots
If Diener goes away in the late summer, his pick is the Pacific Northwest, in particular, Seattle, Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, British Columbia. “There is cool weather, great hiking, biking and amazing salmon,” he tells us. “Also San Francisco for biking over the Golden Gate Bridge and watching the morning fog.”
If you’re going — book now
Book now, says Diener. “You get the best hotel rates when you book 14 to 21 days in advance.” He also suggests looking for properties where kids can stay for free, hotels that offer free food for kids, free breakfast and any other freebies thrown in. “Summer is the time when hotels tend to put in more freebies.”
Tell us
Where will you be going for late summer? Share in the comments below!
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