I’m on vacation this summer. It’s a real vacation, no freelance or work work involved. This is my first real break since I started working for clients on the internet in 2002. I want to go somewhere warm and sunny and exotic, like Indonesia or someplace. I’d invite you along but the hotel rooms there are like $350/night. Which reminds me of another reason why it’s good to be going on vacation this summer: Cheap hotels! Would you rather stay at home or take your family on an awesome summer vacation? Let us help you answer this question and make your decision less difficult.

Get out of the office! You deserve it. You’ve been working hard all year long and it seems like this is the only time you get to breathe, let alone go on vacation. We all need a change of scene sometimes, so here are my recommendations for people in your situation. But first, some questions: Where will you go? What will you do while there? Will you plan any activities? In time for summer 2017, we have created a series of 4 Infographics that will be posted over the next few weeks. These 4 Infographics will cover:

Go On Summer Vacation

Best Summer Vacations

For many, the desire to travel peaks when summer rolls around. But with so many places experiencing warmer weather and longer days, it’s hard to decide which destination is right for you. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News weighed factors like activities and entertainment options, lodging, dining venues and weather to decide the best summer vacations. Use this list to help you plan your vacation, and don’t forget to vote for your favorite spots below. (Note: Some of the below destinations may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Check with the CDC and the U.S. Department of State before traveling.)

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• View 106 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoLondon#1 in Best Summer VacationsGet down in London town for your next summer vacation. Spend your days picnicking in Hyde Park, touring the grounds of Buckingham Palace (open to the public for 10 weeks in the summer) and sipping cocktails on the city’s rooftop bars. Or, admire London’s green spaces from above with a ride on the London Eye, Europe’s largest observation wheel. Though temperatures historically sit in the 70s during these warmer months, heat waves bringing weather in the 90s aren’t unprecedented. If you’re willing to contend with some heat – and the crowds the season brings – you are guaranteed to have an excellent trip. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 21 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoRio de Janeiro#2 in Best Summer VacationsRio’s cooler months of June, July and August do not feel like your average winter. The city’s seasonal “lows” hover in the 60s, which means touring Rio’s many outdoor offerings will be an incredibly comfortable pursuit. Sink your toes into famous sands such as Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, explore one of the largest urban rainforests on the planet (Tijuca National Park) and hit up one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (Christ the Redeemer). Know that because of the ideal temperatures, Rio fills with tourists this time of year. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 54 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoParis#3 in Best Summer VacationsDaytime temperatures in the 70s makes summer the best time to wander around the City of Light. Dine alfresco at a cafe along the Champs-Élysées, watch lively locals move through the popular Le Marais neighborhood or have a picnic at the Luxembourg Gardens or on the lawns in front of the Eiffel Tower. The only cons: bigger crowds and higher prices on hotel rooms. You may want to consider a vacation rental to save money, and you should plan to visit world-renowned attractions like the Louvre first thing in the morning to avoid hordes of tourists. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 42 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoVancouver#4 in Best Summer VacationsSummer transforms Vancouver, British Columbia, into a mecca of festivals and outdoor activities. Plan your trip around June’s International Jazz Festival or visit at the beginning of July to celebrate Canada Day. Late July brings the Vancouver Pride Parade and the Honda Celebration of Light, a dazzling fireworks competition over English Bay. Regardless of which month you choose to visit, you can enjoy hiking at Stanley Park, sunbathing at Kitsilano Beach and other outdoor activities in glorious 70-degree weather. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 37 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoBali#5 in Best Summer VacationsSummer is a great time to visit Bali because it falls within the Indonesian destination’s dry season. Plus, daytime temperatures consistently stay below 90 degrees. This summertime climate is optimal for exploring the island’s beautiful attractions, including its beaches and outdoor temples, without running the risk of getting heatstroke. While here, don’t forget to visit picture-perfect sights such as Tegallalang Rice Terrace and Nusa Penida, an enchanting island off Bali’s southeast coast that boasts verdant hillsides and excellent scuba diving. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 78 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoSan Diego#6 in Best Summer VacationsSan Diego offers enough outdoor attractions to satisfy all kinds of summer travelers. Families will enjoy exploring the famous San Diego Zoo, while nature lovers can admire the impressive landscapes that form Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. History buffs should take a tour of the USS Midway Museum, while vacationers looking to party will have a ball in the Gaslamp Quarter. No matter what type of traveler you are, the eye-catching architecture and beautiful gardens that make up Balboa Park won’t disappoint. And as for the beaches, San Diego’s wide variety of shorelines means you’ll have ample opportunities for sunbathing. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO

• View 40 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoFlorence#7 in Best Summer VacationsAlthough you’ll have to contend with other sightseers, you’ll find that Florence, Italy’s outdoor cafes, picturesque piazzas and Renaissance architecture shine brightest in summer. Average temperatures range from the high 50s to mid-60s at night, and can reach into the 80s during the day. You can meander through the beautiful Boboli Gardens, soak up some sun atop the grand Duomo or catch a sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo. Because summer is Florence’s peak travel season, you should secure your hotel or vacation rental well in advance. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 41 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoBermuda#8 in Best Summer VacationsIf all you care about is being at the beach during your summer vacation, choose Bermuda. Temperatures during this time of year sit in the 80s, making summer the prime time to catch rays on the sand and swim in warmer Atlantic waters. Chill out along beautiful shorelines such as Horseshoe Bay Beach (the most popular beach), Elbow Beach (the pinkest) and Warwick Long Bay Beach (the longest). Just remember to save time for exploring the many restaurants and boutiques on Front Street, the main drag of Hamilton, Bermuda’s capital. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 63 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoRome#9 in Best Summer VacationsRome is a great summer destination because so many of its iconic landmarks are outside. Visitors can take in the history and scenery at the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Trevi Fountain, as well as the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona and Janiculum Hill, all under the Roman sun. While Rome’s romantic architecture and alluring culture are heavenly with the right weather, know that summer is extremely busy. Hotels will be pricey, and fellow travelers will pack into attractions. To have a little piece of Roma to yourself, visit top attractions early in the morning. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 42 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoDublin#10 in Best Summer VacationsA trip to Dublin in summer is a must for those who want to visit when the weather is comfortable. It’s only once summertime rolls around that Ireland’s capital reaches highs of 60 degrees during the day. Plus, outdoor attractions like St. Stephen’s Green, the Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo shine even brighter. The warmer weather also makes strolls to other iconic city attractions, such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Trinity College Dublin, all the more enjoyable. At night, hit up the renowned Temple Bar and its surrounding pubs for a rowdy good time. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 37 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoToronto#11 in Best Summer VacationsToronto’s winters are notoriously rough and long, so the best time to take in the splendor of Ontario’s capital is during summer when daytime temperatures consistently climb into the 70s. Take a long stroll along the Harbourfront Centre, see the sun blanket the city with light from atop the CN Tower or hop on a ferry and explore the leafy Toronto Islands. Summer is also chock full of exciting events, including the Toronto Fringe Festival, Toronto’s Caribbean Carnival, Pride Toronto and the TD Toronto Jazz Festival. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 57 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoEdinburgh#12 in Best Summer VacationsEdinburgh’s northern U.K. location means that warm weather is rare. In fact, summer is the only time of year when highs in this Scottish destination reach the mid-60s. Each summer, the city hosts the renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe (the world’s largest arts festival), drawing visitors from around the globe. Aside from this fun summer event, travelers can experience Edinburgh’s verdant, sun-soaked landscape. You’ll find the best views from outdoor attractions like Arthur’s Seat, Calton Hill and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 27 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoGreat Barrier Reef#13 in Best Summer VacationsBecause of threats such as overfishing and coral bleaching, a large portion of the world’s coral reefs are disappearing at an alarming rate. In other words, you should visit Australia’s Great Barrier Reef ASAP. Diving and snorkeling are still extremely scenic at hot spots like Osprey Reef and Heron Island. However, you don’t have to be a diver to fully enjoy the Great Barrier Reef. Sailing the blue ocean and kicking back on one of the beautiful Whitsunday Islands beaches will no doubt satisfy relaxation seekers. You can also get to know some of Australia’s animals at Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas and Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 40 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoYellowstone#14 in Best Summer VacationsVisiting the world’s first national park in summer has its perks. You’ll have access to the entire park, which includes spectacular sights like the Old Faithful geyser and Mammoth Hot Springs (certain areas in Yellowstone’s Wyoming, Montana and Idaho sections are closed in winter), plus a number of events and programs. The caveat? You’ll have to contend with masses of other travelers reveling at Yellowstone on vacation. Be sure to book camping sites or other accommodations well in advance to marvel at this national park’s beauty stress-free. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 59 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoChicago#15 in Best Summer VacationsThe Windy City comes alive every summer thanks to warm weather and its incredible lineup of festivals, including Taste of Chicago and Lollapalooza. If you can’t snag tickets to these events (or simply aren’t interested), the city’s many things to do and see will no doubt keep you busy. You can take a Chicago Architecture River Cruise under the sun, walk to iconic city spots like Millennium Park and Grant Park, or catch a baseball game at Wrigley Field. Keep in mind, Chicago flights and hotel rates will likely be pricey due to the favorable weather. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 17 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoBar Harbor#16 in Best Summer VacationsBar Harbor, Maine’s proximity to Acadia National Park makes it a superb spot to hang your hat in summer. While the distance to the park is undoubtedly one of Bar Harbor’s selling points, you should save room on your itinerary to explore this charming coastal town. First, check out downtown Bar Harbor, where you’ll find restaurants serving lobster and blueberry dishes (the state’s official fruit). Then, book a boat or whale watching tour on the bay or take a stroll along the scenic Shore Path for awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic Ocean. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• Belongs on List?YesNoCannon Beach#17 in Best Summer VacationsThis gem along Oregon’s northwest coast is a hive of activity come summer. Whether you’re relaxing on nearly 4 miles of pristine shoreline, hiking one of the town’s cliffside trails or snapping photos of Oregon’s iconic Haystack Rock, a vacation here will be one to remember. Visit in June to experience the annual Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest, one of the most popular events of the year, or arrive in July to celebrate a fireworks-free Independence Day with a bonfire instead. While you’ll have to contend with other beachgoers for a spot on the sand, Cannon Beach’s ideal weather conditions (summer highs sit in the mid-60s) and breathtaking coastal scenery can’t be missed.
• View 41 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoCape Cod#18 in Best Summer VacationsBetween Memorial Day and Labor Day, locals and tourists swarm Cape Cod’s 40 miles of national seashore – and for good reason. Daytime temperatures in this New England town commonly reach the 70s in summer, giving the area a chance to thaw after the chilly winter. In addition to relaxing on the sand, travelers can plan a scenic bike ride along the Cape Cod Rail Trail or wander through the serene Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge. To ensure availability (especially on weekends), reserve your hotel rooms or vacation rentals as early as possible. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 91 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoBoston#19 in Best Summer VacationsSoaking up the history of the Freedom Trail and enjoying city parks like Boston Common and the Boston Public Garden are much more pleasant when daytime temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s. Summer is also when Beantown comes alive with frequent baseball games at Fenway Park and outdoor events like the Chinatown Main Street Summer Festival and Boston Harborfest. Considering this is the most pleasant time to visit the city weather-wise, hotel rates and airfare will be high. Be sure to book in advance. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• Belongs on List?YesNoMachu Picchu#20 in Best Summer VacationsSummer features fewer rain showers than other seasons in the Peruvian mountains, plus daytime highs in the 60s and 70s. This pleasant weather means experienced hikers will have terrific conditions for trekking the Inca Trail. Non-hikers can still enjoy this iconic locale, but keep in mind that trail spots (and admission tickets) are limited and require reservations. Because of the incredible weather during this time of year, you should expect this UNESCO World Heritage Site and the nearby city of Cusco to be busier than usual.
• View 48 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoGrand Canyon#21 in Best Summer VacationsThe Grand Canyon is a popular place to travel in summer because the North Rim, which closes in winter, is open for business. The additional area makes space for double the amount of adventures. First-time visitors should hit up the South Rim first, where they’ll find popular lookouts, trailheads and amenities, including Grand Canyon Village and Desert View. Keep in mind that because school is out during this time, families flock to the Grand Canyon. As such, it’s best to book accommodations several months to a year in advance. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO