Summer is one of the best times to travel, especially if you live in Phoenix. As temperatures here creep toward record highs, you may find yourself dreaming up getaway plans. It’s also a convenient time to travel because there’s a break in the school year for many families and individuals.
Check our blog for money-saving apartment tips that will help you raise funds, then decide what you’re looking for on your next journey. Road trips to Flagstaff or the Grand Canyon are nice at this time of year, and some people like to take it a step further with a bigger summer vacation. After considering options both in the United States and abroad, here are six of our very favorite places to go for an extended stay.
1 – Chicago, IL
Chicago is perhaps the crown jewel of the midwest, and it’s also among the most affordable vacation destination on this list. Just as summer is a good time to dodge the weather in Phoenix, it’s one of the most temperate times in Chicago. Average summer temperatures peak at around 80°F there because of its northern location and proximity to Lake Michigan. Dubbed the Windy City, it may also offer a cool breeze for you to enjoy.
The weather isn’t even close to the only reason to visit Chicago. It’s a terrific place to shop, eat, and admire a thriving metropolis. The Chicago Architecture River Cruise is a worthy investment of time and money, as you’ll be able to learn about the city while taking in breathtaking sights. You may want to time your visit to coincide with a music festival or baseball game.
2 – Rome, Italy
If you’ve been saving up for an iconic vacation, Rome is worth some consideration. It’s one of the most famous and culturally significant cities in the entire world, and history enthusiasts will be especially awe-struck. Popular attractions include all of the following:
- -Trevi Fountain
- -Spanish Steps
- -The Colosseum
- -Piazza Navona
- -The Roman Forum
- -Gianicolo Hill
An extended stay in Rome will be expensive during the summer, which is to be expected for a bucket list item of this magnitude. The scenery is out of this world, especially if you go out in the city during the early morning– that’s when the crowds are thinnest and the lighting is just right. Don’t forget to enjoy some authentic Italian food while you’re there!
3 – Glacier National Park
Located in Montana’s portion of the Rocky Mountains (and extending slightly into Canada), Glacier National Park is among the most beautiful places on earth. Summer temperatures remain cool thanks to a combination of high altitude and northern location. The park is home to over 700 miles of trails for hiking and photography opportunities. You may spot some elk, bighorn sheep, and even bears if you’re lucky.
Dip your feet into some ice-cold water at the end of a long hike, or partake in some of the other activities. Just driving through the park is exhilarating, and you’ll have the opportunity to camp, ride bicycles, or catch stunning views. Go into town for some huckleberry pie to get a unique taste of this part of the country.
4 – Dublin, Ireland
If you’ve wanted to visit Ireland, summer is the absolute best time for comfortable weather. Highs will still top out around 60°F, so you’ll definitely want to pack some warmer clothes just in case. Enjoy a break from the Phoenician scorchers as you stroll through Ireland’s capital city. Check out St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College, St. Stephens Green, and Phoenix Park. While you’re at that last destination, you’ll notice it’s a lot different from this Phoenix.
One of the many great things about Ireland is that it’s small enough for you to see a lot of the country in one trip. Rent a car, hop on a tour, or take public transportation to get a taste of the full Irish experience. If you’re a fan of adult beverages, the Guinness brewery, Jameson distillery, or any local pub are worth some investigation. Grab a glass and wash down classic Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie or coddle.
5 – Boston, MA
The northeast coast is about as far away from Phoenix as you can go while staying in the contiguous United States. Washington, D.C., New York City, and more make for good landing spots, but it’s hard to beat Boston. The city’s history is significantly different from our own here in Phoenix, and the culture is a little bit different too. Enjoy the (much less overwhelming) sunshine with a walk down to the pier for a lobster roll, then go see some sights on foot.
If you’re a sports fan, Fenway Park is something of a mecca– see the Green Monster and Pesky’s Pole in person. Boston boasts great museums, and the whole city is something like a history museum itself. You could live there for a full lifetime and not soak up everything it has to offer, so don’t get overwhelmed by a desire to do it all.
In fact, you may even want to escape the hustle and bustle with a trip up the coast. It’s not far from Cape Cod, which is home to beautiful beaches and quaint old towns. Go for a dip in the ocean, watch seals navigate the waves, and layout under the stars at night.
Work some fine dining into your daily budget for Boston and the surrounding locations. This whole area offers some of the best seafood in the world, and Boston’s North End is home to many phenomenal Italian restaurants. Hit Mike’s Pastry for a cannoli at the end of the night if you’re not too full of pasta.
6 – Machu Picchu
Nestled into the mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is one of the wonders of the world. Mountain rain showers are less common during the summer, which leaves more good weather in which to enjoy a refreshing hike. Pack a backpack and set out on the Inca Trail, where you can find the legendary Lost City. Whether you’re hiking or taking transportation to the Incan ruins, you may want to look into admission tickets in advance. Don’t let that scare you away– the experience is even more amazing thanks to efforts to keep crowds in check.
Apartments for Rent in Arizona
If your schedule and budget aren’t cooperating with your summer travel goals, the next best thing is to get some rest and relaxation right where you are. To that end, at Heers Management we are delighted to offer some of the best Phoenix apartments available. You may not feel the need to get away when you love your home.
Our apartments in Phoenix are conveniently located to give residents access to all the best attractions our city has to offer. Common areas including pools turn your daily living situation into a summer oasis. Have some friends over and make your own festivities without ever boarding a plane. Contact us today to schedule a walkthrough, and you’ll be able to see if a move to West Phoenix should be your big summer adventure.