Best Places to Visit in the USA This Summer (That You Can Reach by Bus)

Summer is calling—and it’s saying skip the airport. If you’re itching to explore without maxing out your credit card (or your patience), Broadway Bus Lines is here to be your ride-or-die for discovering some of the coolest hot spots in the U.S. this summer.

From beachy escapes to charming small towns, we’re spotlighting top travel destinations across the country you can get to comfortably, affordably, and stress-free by bus.

So grab your sunglasses, pack that weekender bag, and let’s roll.

Why Travel by Bus This Summer?

Not only is traveling by bus way cheaper than flying, but it’s also better for the planet and infinitely more relaxing than sitting in airport security for 45 minutes behind someone who still doesn’t know how to take off their belt.

When you ride with Broadway Bus Lines, you get:

• Cushy seats with legroom (yes, even for tall folks)
• Free Wi-Fi to scroll or stream guilt-free
• Easy online booking and real-time tracking
• Direct routes to the best summer spots in the U.S.

# Budget-friendly  # Comfortable  # Eco-conscious

Sounds like your summer just got an upgrade. Charter with Broadway Bus Lines : Click here to request a quote now.

1. Asheville, North Carolina – Blue Ridge Beauty & Beer Heaven

Why go? Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has all the artsy, outdoorsy, brewery-hopping charm you need for the perfect chill summer trip. Think vibrant downtown streets, stunning hikes, and rooftop bars galore.

What to do:

• Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
• Sample flights at New Belgium Brewing
• Tour the jaw-dropping Biltmore Estate

Average Summer Temps: 75°F – 85°F
Bus from: NYC, Atlanta, Charlotte, and more
Source: Lonely Planet’s Best Places in the US

2. Traverse City, Michigan – A Small Town with Big Summer Vibes

Why go? Cherry capital of the world? Check. Beaches, wine tours, and dreamy summer weather? Double check. Traverse City is one of those underrated gems that punches way above its weight when it comes to summer fun.

What to do:

• Lounge on Lake Michigan’s beaches
• Hit the trails at Sleeping Bear Dunes
• Attend the National Cherry Festival

Average Summer Temps: 70°F – 80°F
Source: Travel + Leisure’s Best Small Towns for Summer

3. Santa Fe, New Mexico – Art, Culture, and Sunsets for Days

Why go? Santa Fe is where desert meets design. It’s warm, walkable, and seriously photogenic. Plus, it’s not packed with tourists like other Southwest destinations, which means more room for your vacation glow-up.

What to do:

• Explore art galleries on Canyon Road
• Devour green chile everything
• Catch a desert sunset from Cross of the Martyrs

Average Summer Temps: 85°F – dry and dreamy
Source: Cosmopolitan’s Underrated Summer Travel Ideas

4. Charleston, South Carolina – Southern Charm with a Breeze

Why go? Cobblestone streets, rainbow-colored houses, and a strong iced tea game. Charleston is what happens when history, hospitality, and summer sunshine all meet in one place.

What to do:

• Stroll through the Historic District
• Grab seafood by the harbor
• Hit Folly Beach for a breezy afternoon

Average Summer Temps: 80°F – 90°F
Source: Global Grasshopper – Best Places to Visit in July

5. Portland, Maine – Cool Weather & Lobster Rolls

Why go? When the South starts to sizzle, head north for cool breezes, lighthouses, and seafood that tastes like summer. Portland is a New England coastal town with enough charm to make you wonder why you ever considered Cancun.

What to do:

• Visit the Portland Head Light
• Feast on lobster rolls
• Explore the Old Port

Average Summer Temps: 68°F – 78°F
Bus from: Boston, NYC, Philly
Sources: Travel + Leisure, Lonely Planet

Absolutely! Let’s expand your summer travel blog with five additional destinations, each offering unique experiences and accessible via Broadway Bus Lines. These spots are perfect for travelers seeking affordable summer adventures across the U.S.

6. St. Simons Island, Georgia – Coastal Charm and Tranquility

Why go? St. Simons Island is a serene barrier island known for its winding bike paths, majestic live oaks, and quiet beaches. Unlike its more crowded neighbors, it offers a laid-back atmosphere even during peak travel seasons.

What to do:

• Explore historic sites like Fort Frederica
• Enjoy kayaking through salt marshes
• Relax on uncrowded beaches (com)

Average Summer Temps: 85°F – 90°F
Bus from: Atlanta, Savannah, Jacksonville
Source: (nypost.com) (thetimes.co.uk)

7. Door County, Wisconsin – Lakeside Bliss and Cherry Orchards

Why go? Situated on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County boasts charming villages, cherry orchards, and scenic shoreline. It’s an ideal blend of calmness and adventure.

What to do:

• Visit lighthouses and limestone cliffs
• Enjoy sailing and kayaking
• Explore local cultures and cuisines

Average Summer Temps: 70°F – 80°F
Bus from: Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison
Source: (airlinesairportsterminal.com)

8. Bozeman, Montana – Gateway to the Great Outdoors

Why go? Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. With stunning hiking trails, crystal-clear streams, and abundant wildlife, it’s perfect for an adventurous yet affordable summer getaway.

What to do:

• Explore nearby Yellowstone National Park
• Fly fish in the Madison River
• Stroll through the vibrant downtown area

Average Summer Temps: 75°F – 85°F
Bus from: Salt Lake City, Denver, Spokane
Source: (oneair.ai)

9. Chattanooga, Tennessee – Scenic City with Southern Hospitality

Why go? Chattanooga offers a mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and Southern charm. Located along the Tennessee River, it’s known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant arts scene.

What to do:

• Walk across the Walnut Street Bridge
• Visit the Tennessee Aquarium
• Hike to Lookout Mountain

Average Summer Temps: 80°F – 90°F
Bus from: Atlanta, Nashville, Birmingham
Source: (oneair.ai)

10. The Ozarks, Missouri/Arkansas – Natural Beauty and Americana Entertainment

Why go? The Ozark Mountains offer rugged terrain, waterfalls, and caves, providing a picturesque backdrop for various outdoor activities. Branson, Missouri, adds a touch of Americana entertainment to the mix.

What to do:

• Explore Dogwood Canyon Nature Park
• Enjoy shows in Branson
• Hike and fish in Withrow Springs State Park

Average Summer Temps: 80°F – 90°F
Bus from: St. Louis, Kansas City, Little Rock
Source: (edition.cnn.com)

Bonus Mentions : 

Burlington, Vermont – Cool Breezes and Creative Bites

Craving cooler summer temps and stunning lakefront views? Burlington’s your spot. This New England gem along Lake Champlain offers a fantastic food scene, bike-friendly paths, and indie shops with serious charm.

What to do:

• Stroll Church Street Marketplace
• Rent a kayak on Lake Champlain
• Sample local cheeses and craft beers

Average Summer Temps: 70°F – 80°F
Bus Routes From: Boston, Albany, Montreal
Source: Cosmopolitan

Covington, Kentucky – Underrated, Unexpected, and Unmissable

Across the river from Cincinnati lies Covington, a town that’s quietly becoming a summer favorite. It combines Southern charm, creative eats, and German-influenced architecture—all without big-city prices.

What to do:

• Walk the Roebling Suspension Bridge
• Enjoy riverfront dining with skyline views
• Explore the MainStrasse Village historic district

Average Summer Temps: 75°F – 88°F
Bus Routes From: Indianapolis, Louisville, Columbus
Source: Food & Wine

Pro Tips for Smart Summer Bus Travel

1. Book Early, Ride Easy
   Seats fill up quickly during peak summer weekends. Grab yours in advance and get better rates.
2. Travel Midweek
   Fewer crowds, lower fares, better views—what’s not to love?
3. Pack Smart
   Light layers, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, and don’t forget your headphones.
4. Explore Like a Local
   Skip the tourist traps. Follow local blogs and tourism sites for free events, happy hours, and secret picnic spots.

Why Broadway Bus Lines is Your Summer MVP

• More Destinations – From big cities to small towns, your itinerary is our route, you choose the places you actually want to visit.
• No Baggage Fees – What you pack is what you bring. Period.
• More Chill, Less Stress – No TSA, no delays, no cramped flights. Just sit back and ride.

Ready for Your Summer Adventure?

Don’t let your summer scroll by. Whether you’re planning a long weekend, a solo reset, or a friends’ trip on a budget, Broadway Bus Lines is your ticket to affordable summer travel across the U.S.

With Broadway Bus Lines, exploring these affordable and captivating destinations is just a comfortable ride away. Whether you’re seeking coastal relaxation, mountain adventures, or cultural experiences, we’ve got your travel needs covered.

Get your seat, skip the stress, and start your journey today at BroadwayBusLines.com

Sources:

• Lonely Planet – Best Places to Visit in the USA
  
• Travel + Leisure – Best Small Towns for Summer
  
• Global Grasshopper – Best Places in July USA
  
• Cosmopolitan – Underrated Summer Travel Ideas
  
• American Bus Association – Benefits of Bus Travel