4 Last Chance Summer Travel Spots

Summer vibes are beginning to wane as August and September come upon us. Not quite ready for fall? We’re thinking you should check the memory card on that camera to ensure there’s room for one more round of summer vacation photos. It’s now that many destinations begin to bid farewell to peak summer crowds, so there’s no better time to grab your camera and make some fantastic memories at late summer travel spots. Check out our list of 4 last chance summer travel spots. From lively urban areas to peaceful natural areas, these camera ready destinations will be the perfect backdrop for some awesome memories.

1. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is the ideal spot for those tired of the beach, but still looking to be outside and soaking up that sunshine. Late summer in Grand Teton National Park means temperatures will be quite a bit cooler and nights might even require a sweater. There are lots of trails to explore whether you want to see the mountains or take a loop around a picturesque lake. If you’re quick to snap your photo, there will be plenty of wild animals to capture stunning photos for your gallery wall back at home. In the evenings head into town and enjoy an old-fashioned western evening. Rodeos, chuckwagon dinners, and fun western shows abound.

2. Chicago, Illinois

For those desiring an urban escape, look no further than Chicago. Perfectly situated in the Midwest, it’s close enough for many folks to skip airport delays and plan a roadtrip. Chicago is truly exquisite in the late summer. Warm days and cool nights will allow you to enjoy the gorgeous lakefront, free concerts in the park, and a different street festival every weekend. When you’re ready to head inside, there are plenty of art exhibitions, museums, and nature conservatories to mosey on through. For a top-notch photo of the city, take a leisurely boat cruise along the Chicago River or out on Lake Michigan. The Chicago Architecture Center provides awesome tours that are as beautiful as they are educational. There’s also plenty of greenery to explore in Chicago, such as Lincoln Park (with its free zoo!), Maggie Daley Park, and Grant Park. Once you’re back home, a whole new gallery wall dedicated to those beautiful Chicago sights might just be necessary.

3. Napa Valley, California

Our next late summer travel spot might not be the best kept secret, but only because August through the fall are some of the best times of the year to visit California’s Napa Valley. The region’s harvest season is the absolute perfect time to visit the cutest towns that dot the valley, such as Calistoga or Angwin. With historic buildings and nature trails you’ll most definitely find plenty of photo-worthy sights. If you’re already excited for this spot, wait until we talk wine! You can punch your ticket on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a truly picturesque journey through some of the most lush vineyards and stunning rolling hills one could imagine.

4. New York City, New York

No matter the time of year, New York City has plenty to offer. And a late summer visit to the city is one of the most wonderful times of the year to explore. Lines at popular attractions, such as the Empire State Building and Ellis Island are much lighter than those peak summer days. August and September encompass some pretty special events in the city as well, such as Shakespeare in the Park, Hispanic Heritage Month, and the Armory Show. You can also head to the Theater District to enjoy a wide range of performances, from Broadway and stand-up comedy shows to ballet and classical music events. Follow with a walk through Central Park, cementing the fact there’s no better place than New York City to create those frame-worthy memories.

Once it’s officially fall and you’re back home—check out our 6 Ingenious Places You Can Put a Gallery Wall blog post. You’ll surely have plenty of gorgeous photos to fill it thanks to your late summer getaway!