Seeking shade? Here are the best places in the US to visit for a cool summer

Previous summers in the US were record-breaking in terms of hot temperatures. The scorching weather increased droughts and wildfires, but it has also affected human health due to inadequate air quality and low water supplies.

Experts forecast that the following years will be at least as hot as the previous ones, but it’s more likely that future summers will be difficult for nature and humans to bear. Places like Phoenix, Tucson, and Texas are hotter by the year, so residents must prepare accordingly to avoid the effects of extreme heat waves.

But worry not—not all places in the US are that excruciating when it comes to high temperatures. Some are cool and quiet, and they’re perfect destinations for a cool summer. Here are a few of them.

New England has cold and cloudy summers

The region of New England from the Northeastern US is one of the best places to experience a chilly summer, especially in Maine or Vermont, where the climate is humid. Hence, summers are short and rainy, whereas Massachusetts is much warmer in this period of time.

Since it’s full of glacial landforms and mountains, you’ll find many places to stay where you’ll only experience the cold wind and cloudy weather. New England is perfect for trips in nature during the summer, so you can hike and perform other sports without breaking a sweat.

However, make sure you research the area you’ll visit beforehand because some, such as Vermont or the Appalachian Mountains, have poor internet connections. It’s best to get a prepaid eSIM for your travel because you’ll access rapid internet broadband at a great price.

There’s so much to explore and visit in New England, from the famous Woodstock to New Port in Rhode Island, so there are plenty of things to do during the summer.

The Rockies have various temperatures and climates

If you’re more interested in wildlife adventures, you could visit the Rocky Mountains, the largest mountain range in North America. The temperatures are cold due to the numerous glaciers around the mountains.

The mountain range consists of numerous public parks and forest lands open to visitors, so you can take a walk along the trees, hike, or go mountain biking, as they’re designated areas for such activities around the area.

If you decide to hike at high altitudes, make sure to research lighting safety, especially during the summer, when the air and climate are dry. Learn about all the possible shelter ideas and know what to do in case you’re near a thunderstorm.

In addition, the Rocky Mountains have Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park, two of the most beautiful wildlife locations that must be visited for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Pacific Coast has mild summers

The Pacific Coast is the coastline between the Western US and the North Pacific Ocean. It includes California, Oregon, and Washington. The average August temperature is around 75-55° F. States like Alaska and Hawaii are sometimes considered part of the coastline, so they’re also great travel options.

The cold currents from the Pacific Ocean make the weather pleasant during the summer, and you’ve got plenty of places to go. For example, Cannon Beach in Oregon offers impressive trails but also great sandy beaches, while the San Juan Islands in Washington have whale-watching tours for tourists.

It’s best not to leave the house unprepared and ready for the trip because the risk of walking on falling rocks or encountering wild animals is considerable. Therefore, it’s best not to leave it alone or learn about the area beforehand.

The Midwest has humid but moderate summers

Another great region in the US to stay during the summer is the Midwest, which includes at least 12 states, such as Kansas, Ohio, and South Dakota. Since it’s so expansive, choosing where your next vacation will be in the Midwest may be challenging, but you can add more elements to consider.

The areas were home to Native Americans and you can learn a lot about the pre-Columbian times while visiting, as there are plenty of museums and national spots celebrating the past. The history of immigration and industrialization will genuinely impress you.

There’s also a lot to see in the Midwest, from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where you can visit a brewery, to the Upper Peninsula in Michigan, where lakes and rivers abound.

How to take care of yourself during hot summers

Don’t underestimate the sun’s UV rays and power. They will damage your skin and affect your health and well-being. Regardless of the cold places you visit, you might stumble upon an unusually hot day because climate change affects the usual temperatures.

Therefore, it would be best to avoid going outdoors on such a day because exposure to the sun is enough for you to have a heatstroke. Still, if you’re outside, make sure to rest often and look out for shady and cool areas. Carrying a wide heat, extra water, and a broad-spectrum SPF cream will help minimize the amount of sunlight you get, and don't forget to wear cool summer trendy fashion outfit.

However, if you think you’re experiencing a heatstroke, get to a shady place immediately and start cooling yourself with damp sheets. A cold shower or bath is ideal for lowering your temperature, as is drinking a lot of water, but avoid alcohol or sugary beverages. A heatstroke will usually give you symptoms of an altered mental state, nausea, and a headache, but watch out for a sudden increase in body temperature.

Are you ready for this summer?

Due to climate change, summers are becoming more extreme, leading to droughts and storms. The hot temperatures affect entire communities and your wellbeing, so if you plan a trip to the US, you could try the places discussed above. They’re closer to chillier spots, whether it’s the ocean or a glacier, making it bearable and comfortable for a summer day.