Under-the-Radar July Getaways

Crowd-free fun in the sun!

Sunny summer days call for one thing: vacation! Unfortunately, everyone else thinks so, too. The result? Cities, beaches, and mountains are crowded with visitors. And those “must-visit” destinations are at their busiest just when you want to unwind. Time to rethink vacation goals! Because these under-the-radar July getaways are a reminder that some of the best summer spots are still waiting to be discovered.

Ready to vacation away from the crowds? Check out these destinations for all of the fun…and plenty of room to enjoy it!

• Bellingham, WA

  For that PNW outdoor fun!

  Can’t decide whether to head to the mountains or play on the water? Then you’re in luck, because in Bellingham you don’t have to choose. Nestled between the Salish Sea (part of the Pacific Ocean) and the North Cascades, this laid-back city is perfect for long July days spent outside. Hike forested trails in the morning, paddle on Bellingham Bay in the afternoon. And in the evening, settle in with a locally brewed beer as you catch a spectacular sunset on the water.

  Back in town, there’s plenty more to discover. Downtown Bellingham is buzzing with indie shops and a booming arts scene. And on Saturdays, the Farmers Market draws over 100 vendors serving up local produce, artisan goods, and delicious street food.

• Door County, WI

  Summer’s sweetest escape!

  Door County is ideal for July getaways: charming small towns, scenic waterfronts, and welcoming locals. This peninsula is home to more than a dozen unique communities. Which one to visit depends on your vacation vibe. Visitors love Sisters Bay for its wide public beach and lively waterfront. Egg Harbor is perfect for a golf trip, with pristine courses and premier dining spots. And Fish Creek, the cultural hub, offers boutique shopping, renowned restaurants, and easy access to Peninsula State Park.

  As for what makes it such a sweet spot for a July vacation? Summer just happens to be cherry season! Stop by roadside farm markets for fresh-picked cherries, homemade pies, juicy jams, and other local treats.

• North Adams, MA

  Where art and adventure come together!

  North Adams is proof that some of the best summer getaways don’t come with long lines or packed itineraries. Tucked into the Berkshires, North Adams is the kind of place that rewards travelers who venture off the beaten path. This small New England city is surrounded by rolling hills and scenic trails. Quiet, cooler mornings are perfect for exploring the outdoors. Follow up a brisk hike with lunch at a cozy cafe or a craft beer on a patio.

  You’ll find plenty to do during the summer months. Outdoor concerts and farmers markets fill local calendars. Or get lost in the expansive galleries of MASS MoCA, one of the largest contemporary art museums in the country.

• St. Simons Island, GA

  Laid-back coastal living!

  Life moves a little slower on St. Simons Island. And that’s exactly its appeal. Instead of bustling boardwalks and packed beaches, you’ll find shady streets, moss-draped oaks, and wide stretches of sand. Throw in a charming village filled with restaurants, and you’ve got the ideal spot for July getaways! There’s even a lighthouse, with panoramic views of the Atlantic that make it well worth the climb.

  Summer is also a wonderful time to get out on the water. Book a dolphin-spotting cruise or cast a line on a fishing charter. The island’s scenic waterways are perfect for paddle-boarding or kayaking through salt marshes. At the end of the day, head to St. Simons Island Pier for golden hour with a scoop of locally made ice cream.

Sometimes the best vacations aren’t the ones topping everyone’s travel list. They’re the places that leave you wondering why you didn’t visit sooner. These under-the-radar July getaways offer a fresh alternative to the usual (crowded!) summer hotspots.

And to make sure your travels are as relaxing as your getaway, ship your stuff to your final destination with LugLess. No hauling bags around, no wasting vacation time at baggage claim. Just hop off the plane and straight into the July escape of your dreams!