10 Best Summer Trips to Book Now—From Budget to Bucket List

Summer can fly by in a flash, but the right vacation can stay with you forever. That’s why we asked the experts at AAA Travel to share their standout trips for summer 2026—journeys that spark a sense of wonder, strengthen family bonds, and bring joy that you’ll carry with you long after the season ends.

And even now, there’s still time to book a memorable trip before the season slips by. Spanning everything from budget-friendly US getaways to bucket-list adventures abroad, these 10 trips answer the age-old question, “What did you do on your summer vacation?” with treasured stories you’ll be telling for years.

In the US

Theme park thrills and chills: Orlando, Florida

The Theme Park Capital of the World is on a roll this summer, with bold new attractions and exciting updates across its biggest parks. At Walt Disney World, highlights include a reimagined Test Track and an America 250th-themed Soarin’, new Mandalorian-led missions on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, an interactive Bluey meet-and-greet, and a Muppets-themed overhaul of Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster.

Over at Universal Orlando Resort, next-generation experiences continue to build on major franchises, from Mario Kart–inspired racing to How to Train Your Dragon attractions and new dark rides such as Monsters Unchained. Alongside the rides, Universal has significantly expanded its footprint with three new on-site hotels—Universal Stella Nova Resort, Universal Terra Luna Resort, and Universal Helios Grand Hotel—adding some 2,000 rooms and more ways than ever to stay close to the action, including at Universal’s recently opened Epic Universe.

Also consider: Anaheim, California (Disneyland) • Tampa, Florida (Busch Gardens) • Hershey, Pennsylvania (Hersheypark)

Sun, surf, and city life: San Diego, California

Searching for the Goldilocks of summer weather? You’ll find it in San Diego, where average daytime highs hover in the mid-70s°F with steady sunshine and little rain. But great weather isn’t the only draw. San Diego strikes a balance between laid-back beach days and vibrant city life. Summer 2026 stands out as an exceptional time to visit, as many families look to explore stateside without giving up variety, making the city’s mix of beaches, neighborhoods, and major attractions especially appealing.

Start your adventures surfing in La Jolla or Coronado or biking along the coast, and then head to Balboa Park for museums and the San Diego Zoo. In the evening, catch a Padres game at Petco Park, an outdoor concert, or dinner by the water. With LEGOLAND California just up the coast, it’s easy to squeeze in some themepark fun and enjoy a trip that keeps both kids and adults happy.

Also consider: San Francisco, California • Miami, Florida • Honolulu, Hawai‘i

An iconic island escape: Maui, Hawai‘i

When it comes to the Hawaiian Islands, Maui has it all: golden beaches, relaxing resorts, immersive activities, scenic drives, and unforgettable sunrises and sunsets atop volcanic peaks. This destination darling is poised for even greater popularity this summer as travelers seek an ideal mix of relaxation and adventure along with meaningful cultural experiences.

Spend your days snorkeling at Molokini Crater, exploring the winding Road to Hāna, or taking in panoramic views from the summit of Haleakalā. In the evenings, experience a traditional Hawaiian lūʻau or learn about native Hawaiian culture and history through local tours and storytelling. Along the way, discover lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and coastal towns that capture the island’s aloha spirit.

Also consider: Hawai‘i island-hopping • US Virgin Islands • Puerto Rico

Wide-open spaces and Western spirit: National parks

Pulitzer Prize–winning writer Wallace Stegner once called our national parks “the best idea we ever had”—and in this milestone summer marking America’s 250th anniversary, they feel more meaningful than ever. From historic battlefields and monuments to storied trails and sweeping vistas, our national parks bring the country’s story to life through special exhibitions, guided experiences, and immersive storytelling.

Pair your visit with a stay at a classic dude ranch, where the Western spirit—rooted in independence, connection to the land, and a slower, more intentional way of life—comes alive through horseback riding, fireside storytelling, and evenings under starlit skies.

Also consider: Jackson Hole, Wyoming • Colorado Rockies • Utah’s canyon country

A once-in-a-generation celebration: Philadelphia and Washington, DC

Travelers are flocking to Pennsylvania's City of Brotherly Love this year as two once-in-a-lifetime events converge: the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the FIFA World Cup. As the birthplace of America, Philadelphia is hosting a yearlong celebration with special programming, exhibitions, and concerts centered around Independence Mall—home to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the National Constitution Center. The Museum of the American Revolution adds further depth, while Lincoln Financial Field welcomes world-class matches from June 14 to July 4, including a Round of 16 game on the Fourth of July.

Keep the celebration going with a trip to Washington, DC—about a 2.5-hour drive south—for a star-spangled lineup of exhibitions, festivals, and Fourth of July events on the National Mall, creating a two-city journey that connects America’s past and present.

Also consider: Boston, Massachusetts • Williamsburg, Virginia • Charleston, South Carolina

Around the World

An easy first trip abroad: Québec City and Montréal, Canada

Looking to introduce your family to international travel without the long-haul flight? Québec City and Montréal offer a European feel just a few hours from home. In Québec City, wander cobblestone streets in Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac overlooks the St. Lawrence River. Then, head to Montréal—about a three-hour drive—for a mix of historic neighborhoods, lovely parks, and a chef-driven food scene shaped by both French and North American influences.

This summer is an ideal time to visit, with family-friendly festivals and outdoor dining bringing both cities to life. And bonus: The strength of the US dollar can help you stretch your budget further, making it easier to get more value on hotels, dining, and activities—along with a chance to give your family a first taste of the wider world without the jet lag.

Also consider: Vancouver, Canada • London, England • Dublin, Ireland

Scenic drives, storied pubs, and legendary greens: Ireland

As more travelers seek slower, more immersive vacation experiences, Ireland is responding with expanded museum programming, enhanced food and whiskey trails, and a full lineup of cultural festivals. Summer is an especially great time to visit the Emerald Isle, with long daylight hours that stretch into the evening—ideal for driving the western Wild Atlantic Way, lingering in coastal towns, and settling into one place for a few days at a time. Evenings often unfold in local pubs, where live traditional music and conversation are as much a part of the experience as the scenery. Golf is also in the spotlight across the country, with a trove of more than 400 courses and growing attention ahead of the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in County Limerick.

And right now, Ireland is more accessible than ever from the US, thanks to expanded nonstop flight options from a growing number of cities across the country. With its relatively compact size and dramatic scenic routes, Ireland makes it easy to slow down and savor the summer.

Also consider: Scotland • Portugal • Switzerland

The simple way to see Europe: Mediterranean cruise (Spain–France–Italy)

Want to see more of Europe without constantly packing and unpacking? A Mediterranean cruise makes it easy, with stops in iconic cities such as Barcelona, Marseille, and Rome, plus ports like Naples for Pompeii, Florence via Livorno, and the French Riviera from Nice or Cannes—all in one trip. Summer 2026 is shaping up to be an excellent season to sail, with more departures, broader itineraries, and competitive pricing.

Enjoy port days touring historic landmarks, wandering coastal towns, or dining along the waterfront, and then return to the same comfortable cabin each night. Most itineraries run 7 to 10 days, with guided shore excursions, transportation between ports handled for you, and meals included on board—making it a no-stress way to visit multiple countries in a single trip.

Also consider: European river cruises • Norwegian Fjords cruises • Greek Isles cruises

Natural wonders and eco-driven adventures: Costa Rica

Costa Rica delivers one of the most concentrated doses of nature and adventure anywhere—without the long distances or logistical hurdles. It’s also well-suited for families, with guided tours, strong tourism infrastructure, and a wide range of activities suited to different age groups and skill levels.

In a single itinerary, you can hike near Arenal Volcano, zip-line through cloud forests in Monteverde, spot sloths and monkeys in Manuel Antonio National Park, and unwind on the gorgeous coast. Guided excursions make it easy to access national parks, waterfalls, and wildlife reserves, while eco-lodges and small resorts keep you close to the landscape. It’s a destination where you’re constantly moving—hiking, rafting, snorkeling—but never far from a comfortable base. You see a lot, do a lot, and still have time to relax—a balance that makes Costa Rica especially rewarding for a summer trip with an active crew.

Also consider: Belize • Peru • New Zealand

A cultural journey worth the splurge: Japan

If there’s one trip that feels worth the investment, it’s Japan. While many travelers start in Tokyo—for its temples and shrines, standout dining, and vibrant neighborhoods—interest continues to expand beyond the capital, with Osaka drawing global attention following Expo 2025 and its showcase of innovation and culture. Summer 2026 is an especially compelling time to go, as the country builds on that momentum with renewed energy and expanded travel experiences. From there, head to Kyoto for historic temples and traditional gardens, or venture farther to places such as Hakone for hot springs or Nara for a quieter pace.

Whether you’re riding the shinkansen (bullet train) between cities, staying in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), or exploring food scenes from street markets to Michelin-starred restaurants, Japan is the kind of trip that rewards the time and effort it takes to get there.

Also consider: South Korea • France • Italy

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Don’t just dream about your summer vacation; make it happen with guidance from a AAA Travel expert. So when this summer comes and goes, you’ll have made it count—with plenty of stories to tell.