June is such a wonderful month. The weather warms up, school wraps up for the summer and wedding season officially begins. This is the perfect time to book a flight, look up rental car deals and explore some new territory. While there’s not really a bad place in North America to visit in June, these 15 spots are particularly perfect.
1. Yellowstone National Park, Montana and Wyoming
Most of the crowds come out later in the summer, but Yellowstone is warm and gorgeous in June. Go hiking, take in the natural wonders, view the wildlife and see the geysers. Camp near Yellowstone for an authentic “back to nature” experience or stay at lodging inside the park.
2. Vancouver, British Columbia
Like many parts of the Pacific Northwest, Vancouver sees a lot of rain. But in June the sun comes out, temperatures aren’t peak summer hot, attractions are less crowded, and you can still find hotel deals.
3. Niagara Falls, New York and Ontario
It’s always packed, but go on a weekday in June to avoid the bigger crowds. Stay on the Canadian side for a less cluttered experience, and don’t forget the Maid of the Mist tour.
4. New York City
Visit the Big Apple before the city streets are scorching and the tourists come out in full force. Early to mid-June tends to attract fewer people than July and August. Check our New York travel guide for more ideas.
5. Dallas, Texas
You may not think of Dallas as a tourist hot spot, but there’s a lot to do. Between the food, festivals and the Art District, you won’t be disappointed. June is one of the most affordable months to visit.
6. Moab, Utah
Moab is absolutely beautiful, and Arches National Park is the perfect place to hike. The weather can get insanely hot during summer, but you’ll see tamer temperatures in early June.
7. Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
North Idaho is beautiful in any season, but summers are especially wonderful. You’ll find great dining, cute shops and water sports, not to mention a beautiful resort with a world-famous golf course featuring a floating green.
8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
This beautiful park is nice and thawed out by June with fully open trails. The tree buds have opened, wildflowers are in bloom and newborn animals have started to emerge. Check our Colorado travel guide for more.
9. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is one of the country’s best walking cities and a haven for history buffs. June is the perfect time — visit at the end of June and stick around for the Independence Day celebrations.
10. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
The Badlands are beautiful in their own way, and this fine national monument is worth visiting. Fly into Denver, Jackson Hole or Rapid City, then rent a car for the drive since you’ll want great gas mileage. There’s more to explore than just the monument — Rapid City has great tourist stops, and the notorious Wall Drug Store is worth the drive.
11. Santa Barbara, California
Visit this smaller, calmer city north of Los Angeles and enjoy its laid-back vibe and absolutely perfect temperatures. Santa Barbara is an ideal June destination because most out-of-state tourists are heading south to Disneyland and other major attractions.
12. Ithaca, New York
The Finger Lakes region comes alive in late spring. You’ll have fresh produce, new wine to taste, sunny trails to hike, and sparkling lakes.
13. The San Juan Islands, Washington State
The islands offer a slower-paced way of living. They can get very crowded during summer, but it’s not quite as packed before the 4th of July. For fewer crowds, try the more rural Lopez Island. Explore our Washington travel guide for more ideas.
14. Knoxville, Tennessee
Nestled on the banks of the Tennessee River and in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Knoxville really comes alive in June when you can fully enjoy the large Market Square and other outdoor attractions.
15. Glacier National Park, Montana
The Crown Jewel of the Continent should be on everyone’s travel bucket list — it’s incredible. Many of its roads and trails are closed for winter and early spring, but by June you’ll have access to its best spots.
From national parks to coastal gems, June offers perfect weather, fewer crowds, and amazing deals. Rent a car and start exploring.
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