Best Places to Visit in June: Top Destinations to Kickstart Your Summer

June is one of the best months to travel, especially for families and other people limited to summer breaks. It has long days and warm weather—without the peak-season chaos of July and early August. Thanks to milder temperatures and fewer travelers, June offers a sweet spot for exploring national parks, buzzing cities, and international hotspots.

Traveling during the first two weeks of June can help you avoid the rush: Flights and hotels are often cheaper, and attractions are less crowded. The same goes for the final two weeks of August, once kids are back in school. And if you want to find the best cheap flight deals, let Going do the work for you! Download the Going app, and we’ll send the best flight alerts straight to your phone—so you can spend less time searching and more time packing.

10+ best places to visit in June in the US

National parks: an outdoor paradise

Yellowstone National Park

During June, all roads at Yellowstone National Park are finally open, the weather is mild, and there's a higher chance you’ll spot wildlife, such as bison and bears. With schools just wrapping up classes, it’s a great time for family trips before July crowds peak. It’s also one of the rare moments when you can enjoy both snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys in the same hike.

• Budget: $–$$$$
• Trip type: Adventure, family-friendly
• Highlights: Wildlife sightings, geysers, hiking, Yellowstone Lake

Yosemite National Park

Few places in the US are more majestic than Yosemite, and June offers a perfect storm of accessible trails, peak waterfall season, and smaller crowds than in mid-summer. It’s the best time to witness Yosemite Falls at full power and explore high-country areas before heat and congestion arrive in July.

• Budget: $$–$$$$
• Trip type: Hiking, nature, photography
• Highlights: Yosemite Falls, Tenaya Lake, Mariposa Grove

Gates of the Arctic National Park

Gates of the Arctic is a bucket-list experience that’s only accessible during a short window. As one of the few untouched regions in the US, this national park is the perfect setting for an unforgettable adventure. June offers nearly 24 hours of daylight, as well as improved weather for plane access and guided expeditions. If you’re craving true solitude and epic landscapes, it doesn’t get better than this.

• Budget: $$$$
• Trip type: Remote wilderness adventure
• Highlights: Caribou herds, rugged tundra

Coastal getaways 

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach strikes a sweet balance in June: warm enough for the beach but just before the peak summer prices and crowds. Its affordability, abundance of family-friendly resorts, and classic boardwalk vibes make it ideal for budget-conscious beachgoers. Find the best budget airlines in the US to save on your trip to South Carolina.

• Budget: $–$$
• Trip type: Family-friendly, budget beach trip
• Highlights: Boardwalk, golf, oceanfront resorts

Santa Monica, California

Although it’s known for “June Gloom” mornings, Santa Monica shines in the summer afternoons. Think great weather, lively beach scenes, and easy access to LA’s best neighborhoods. It’s a fantastic escape for solo travelers or couples looking for breezy, walkable beach culture.

• Budget: $$–$$$
• Trip type: Couples, solo travelers, beach lovers
• Highlights: Pier, biking, west coast sunsets

City escapes: culture and entertainment

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago owns summer. It's as simple as that. In June, the lake breeze keeps temperatures in check, and events like Taste of Chicago, outdoor concerts, and river cruises take over. During this month, the Windy City becomes even more accessible and exciting with tons of food and entertainment options for everyone.

• Budget: $$–$$$
• Trip type: Urban, food lovers, events
• Highlights: Millennium Park, river cruises, outdoor dining

New Orleans, Louisiana

It’s hot, yes, but it’s also cheaper. June sits in New Orleans’ middle ground between the spring festival rush and hurricane season. Fewer crowds mean better rates on hotels and a more relaxed pace for exploring food, jazz, and French Quarter history.

• Budget: $$–$$$
• Trip type: Music, food, nightlife
• Highlights: French Quarter, live jazz, po’boys and beignets

Seattle, Washington

By June, Seattle finally dries out and comes alive. The days are long and green, the views of Mt. Rainier are finally visible, and festivals like the Fremont Fair make the city’s quirky charm shine. It’s ideal for travelers who love a blend of urban energy and natural beauty.

• Budget: $$–$$$
• Trip type: Urban/nature hybrid
• Highlights: Pike Place Market, ferry rides, city hikes

Scenic mountain retreats

Aspen, Colorado

Summer in Aspen is an unbeatable plan that’s likely to become a staple. The ski crowds are gone, wildflowers bloom across meadows, and temperatures are cool and comfortable for hiking and art festivals. It’s romantic, relaxed, and a great way to enjoy the Rockies without snow boots.

• Budget: $$$
• Trip type: Outdoor, romantic
• Highlights: Wildflower hikes, art festivals, cool temperatures

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

June in Tahoe is paradise for outdoor lovers. You’ll catch the tail end of snowmelt fueling waterfalls and the start of summer beach weather. The best part? Prices haven’t hit their July peak yet, making it a smart move for families or budget travelers. And, if you know how to book cheap domestic flights, you can save even more.

• Budget: $$–$$$
• Trip type: Family-friendly, nature, watersports
• Highlights: Kayaking, alpine hiking, scenic views

Unique experiences in June

Hartford, Vermont

This small Vermont town might fly under most travelers’ radar—until June. That’s when Hartford and neighboring Quechee host one of New England’s most visually-stunning events: the Quechee Hot Air Balloon Craft and Music Festival. Bright, colorful balloons fill the sky over rolling green hills, while local vendors, musicians, and food stalls bring the town to life. It’s a perfect long weekend destination if you’re craving fresh air, scenic beauty, and something different from the usual summer beach trip. 

• Budget: $$–$$$$
• Trip type: Rural charm, couples, nature
• Highlights: Quechee Hot Air Balloon Festival, covered bridges, early summer hiking, farm stays

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah’s beauty is no secret. But in June, you can still enjoy it before summer humidity and crowds hit their peak. Garden squares are vibrant, hotel prices are manageable, and the city glows with romantic, Southern charm.

• Budget: $–$$
• Trip type: History, romance
• Highlights: Spanish moss, riverfront walks, historic homes

Bodega Bay, California

Cool and coastal, Bodega Bay offers a chill summer experience without the typical California beach crowds. It’s perfect for road trippers and foodies, with fresh seafood, dramatic cliffs, and whale sightings right from shore.

• Budget: $$
• Trip type: Scenic drive, couples
• Highlights: Coastal views, seafood, hiking, and whale watching

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Best places in the world to visit in June

June is also one of the best times to travel internationally. It marks the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and winter in parts of the Southern Hemisphere, so there’s a wider range of climates and experiences than you’ll find in July or August. Plus, traveling in early June often means smaller crowds and better prices—especially if you know how to find mistake fares or what’s the cheapest month to book flights.

Best places to visit in Europe in June

Europe in June is a travel sweet spot with long daylight hours, blooming landscapes, and early access to iconic attractions. Countries like Portugal, France, Italy, and Scotland are especially vibrant this time of year, with food festivals, music events, and clear weather drawing travelers from across the globe.

While summer in Europe can mean big crowds, visiting in early June gives you that summery atmosphere without the mid-July congestion. Want to increase your chances of snagging a great June deal to Paris or Amalfi? Learn about the best budget airlines in Europe. 

Best places to visit in North America in June

June is one of the best times to visit Canada, making it a great option for an international visit close to home. Think turquoise lakes in Banff, sweeping mountain vistas in Jasper, and coastal drives through Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island. The weather is cool and clear, and the crowds are still manageable.

Best places to visit in Central America in June

While much of Central America experiences the start of the rainy season during June, it’s still a good time to visit and take advantage of the cheap summer flights. In destinations like Costa Rica, Belize, and Guatemala, rains are often short and paired with deep green scenery and discounted hotels.

Best places to visit in South America in June

It’s winter in the Southern Hemisphere, making June the perfect time to visit destinations like Peru, Chile, and Brazil. Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley are dry, sunny, and ideal for trekking, while cities like Rio de Janeiro offer breezy, comfortable weather without the oppressive heat of summer. If you want to save on your trip to South America, learn when is the cheapest time to buy flights.

Best places to visit in Asia in June

Asia can be hit or miss in June, but a few destinations truly stand out. A June vacation to Japan puts you right in the middle of hydrangea season, temple festivals, and peaceful hiking trails around the Japanese mountains. If you prefer beaches, Bali and Thailand’s quieter islands, such as Koh Yao Noi, are perfect to enjoy the sun, the sand, and the great deals during their early dry season.

Best places to visit Australia and New Zealand in June

In Australia and New Zealand, June means winter. But, in our opinion, that’s part of the appeal. Queenstown becomes a winter sports hub, and Sydney shines with Vivid Sydney, a light and arts festival that illuminates the city. Another pro is that prices are often lower than in peak summer, and cooler temperatures make city exploring more comfortable. To save more on your long-haul trip, check if your home airport is one of the cheapest to fly out of internationally.

Best places in Africa to visit in June

Want a safari vacation? June is the month to visit Africa. It’s the start of the dry season in Kruger National Park, when wildlife is easier to spot and mosquitoes are less of a problem. Meanwhile, in Morocco it’s the best time for wandering desert trails and local markets. If you're looking to make these longer journeys more affordable, learning how to find mistake fares can help you score rare deals to destinations like South Africa and Morocco.

Traveling abroad? Join Going Premium for flights out of the US and Elite for premium flight classes.

Travel tips for June trips

Plan ahead

It’s no secret that summer is one of the busiest times of the year for travel, so being flexible goes a long way. Even if you're hoping to travel during early June (when prices and crowds tend to be more manageable) you should expect high demand for popular destinations. Booking accommodations, activities, and even restaurant reservations in advance can make a huge difference in both price and availability.   

Book during winter

Is there such a thing as the best time to book a flight? Our expert advice is to book during the opposite season, especially for summer vacations. If you’re traveling in June, start planning your trip and buying your tickets between December and February.

Join Going

Finding cheap flights in June can be tough, but Going makes it easier. With our team of experts constantly tracking airline pricing patterns and fare drops, we help you discover the kinds of offers you'd rarely find on your own, including mistake fares, flash sales, and limited-time promos.

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