8 Late-Summer Vacation Spots to Visit (Other Than the Beach!)

Named for its 11 narrow bodies of water, the Finger Lakes is one of the fastest-growing wine regions in the United States with hundreds of laidback wineries. Book a night at the renowned Belhurst Castle, where you can explore the historic grounds before settling in with a glass of their famous Tower Port. Traveling with the whole family? Take a day trip to Watkins Glen State Park to hike past jaw-dropping waterfalls on its Gorge Trail Loop. Or consider stopping in the small town of Skaneateles for a bit of light shopping before heading onto the lake.

The Lowcountry generally refers to the southern region of South Carolina that is defined by its tidal marshes, moss-shrouded forests, and laidback charm. There are a number of cities, islands, and resorts you can visit, but the best way to truly experience the Low Country is to explore its one-of-a-kind landscapes.

Spanning 20,000 acres, Palmetto Bluff puts a spotlight on the land's winding tidal creeks and ancient forests while still offering a plethora of award-winning eateries and artsy activities. The area is also steeped in rich Gullah Geechee culture and history and invites people to learn about their distinctive arts, music, and food. And no trip to the Low Country would be complete without a stop in oh-so-beautiful and colorful Charleston.

Glitz and glamour run through the winding streets and pastel-colored buildings of Monaco. Perched above the Mediterranean Sea, the French Riviera country has been under the rule of the Grimaldi family since 1297. The Prince’s Palace and neighboring Saint Nicholas Cathedral are just two of the oldest and most extraordinary royal structures visitors should make time to explore.

While the Formula One Grand Prix happens once a year, car enthusiasts can still get their fill by visiting the gallery that houses Prince Rainier III’s classic automobile collection. Experience the fresh flavors of Monegasque cuisine at one of the country's Michelin-starred restaurants like Blue Bay or more low-key spots like Marché De La Condamine.

Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, Healdsburg has all the foodie buzz of a big city but the relaxed lifestyle of a small town. Hotel Les Mars brings a sense of French living to the area with it's collection of 17th- and 18th-century antiques and incredible wine tastings. The hotel is also right off the historic town square, which puts you at the center of the delightful boutiques and award-winning restaurants.

The Matheson specializes in wine-country cuisine, with most of their ingredients coming straight from the farmers in the area. Whereas, Mateo's Cocina Latina branches out of the traditional cuisine, with chef-owner Mateo Granado experimenting with the flavors of the Yucatan and local, seasonal produce.

Oaxaca serves as Mexico's cultural hub, with its rich traditions and connection to the country's indigenous people. At the eponymous city, the streets burst with color, from the open-air textiles shops, local galleries, and buzzing markets. Oaxaca’s lodging tends to feel homey, as former mansions are transformed into quaint B&Bs and hotels, like Casa de Sierra Azul Hotel.

The city boasts an impressive slate of celebrated restaurants and eateries, but nothing compares to the authentic treats such as tlayuda and enfrijoladas found at street vendor stalls. Just outside the capital lies the stunning Hierve el Agua, a calcified waterfall, which is well worth a day trip.

The colorful colonial architecture and sandy beaches of San Juan have been drawing the masses to Puerto Rico in recent years, but there's so much more to the island, from lush tropical rainforests to a hidden coffee hub in the mountains. Located in the center of the island, Utuado serves as the capital for Puerto Rican coffee, with family-owned farms like Café Gran Batey calling the area home.

The Monte Sagrado Reserve is a private getaway that allows visitors to stay on a coffee plantation and ride horses along the Rio Tanama. El Yunque National Forest also deserves a visit, as it's the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System and has over 240 tree species.

The rugged beauty of coastal Maine meets the serene atmosphere of emerald forests at Acadia National Park. The Victorian-era village of Bar Harbor serves as the perfect home base, as it's in easy reach of Acadia's beloved Park Loop Road and Cadillac Mountain.

The national park also houses a number of well-curated museums including the Smithsonian-affiliated Abbe Museum, which shines a light on the Wabanaki Alliance of Native American tribes. In the off-season, Acadia transforms into an autumn dream, with rich oranges, yellows, and reds covering the forests.

After being hit hard from the pandemic, ever-so-resilient New York City is slowly reinventing itself and proving why it's one of the greatest cities on Earth. The Big Apple appears to be headed onto a greener, more relaxed path, with new wellness-forward attractions popping up.

In May of 2021, Little Island opened to the public as a one-of-a-kind green space and amphitheater at Pier 55 within the larger Hudson River Park. Also, Six Senses, a hospitality group known for its wellness resorts, is slated to open a tranquil city resort and spa between Manhattan’s Hudson River and the High Line.