Sweet summertime. We save up all year to enjoy some well deserved time off. As we are now in the homestretch of the season, many of us are scrambling to get our vacation plans in motion. Many of us have also already done our time in the sun and fun. As New Englanders, we have plenty of options within a reasonable car ride away. How have you spent your summer vacation, or will be spending it? I asked, you answered. The Top 10 hot summer vacation destinations according to you are here, below.
As you would imagine, most people shared that they were vacationing right here at home, in New England. But where is the hotspot this year? Find out below. All the New England states were mentioned, with the exception of Connecticut. The Southern United States were the areas most mentioned, after New England.
Shockingly, Cape Cod was not the most popular spot mentioned. I loved seeing your photos from your fabulous trips. Summer makes it so easy to travel around New England. You can pack lighter and get to most desired destinations on a tank of gas. Sure, gas is a little more expensive these days, but it’s certainly a lot less than paying for plane tickets. It all makes perfect sense. Get out there and explore all New England, the country, and the world have to offer in the sweet summertime.
Take a look at the most popular answers to my question posed on social media: WHERE you have vacationed or will be vacationing this summer? These are the top 10 hot summer vacation destinations, according to you! Thanks for playing along. And feel free to comment on places you’ve been this summer, and would recommend for those still in need of a great place to vacation!
1. Maine
Maine was the state most mentioned when asked where you are vacationing, or plan to vacation. Apparently, we love what Maine has to offer, from pristine beaches to the mountains. Seafood to hiking. Listener Jules shared that she vacationed on Bailey Island, which is in Casco Bay, Maine.
Other Maine hot spots, according to you were Saco River, Moosehead Lake, Bethel, Bar Harbor, Hermit Island and Wells. I love visiting Kennebunkport and Ogunquit. But I have Bar Harbor on my bucket list!
(Photo Courtesy of Jules Ava)
2. Cape Cod and the Islands
The Cape is usually the most mentioned vacation spot, but this year it took a back seat to Maine. Still, a nice showing for places from Provincetown to Martha’s Vineyard. Our listeners said they had vacationed in P-Town, Martha’s Vineyard, Eastham and Yarmouth. Melissa Jean commented, “Went to the cape this past week with family and we enjoyed a day at Cape Cod Inflatable Park with no rain!!!!!!” Cape Cod just smells like summer. Always a favorite spot of mine.
Nauset Light House- Eastham
3. New Hampshire
So many great places to visit in New Hampshire, our neighbor to the North. Listener MaryLou vacationed at Ossippee and shared this photo:
Meanwhile, Debbie has been seen kickin’ back at Newfoundland Lake in NH and shared this pic, with the caption: “We spend our summers living at Newfound Lake in New Hampshire!
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4. Nashville
Nashville is popular year round! I mean, Music City is always alive with great music, and restaurants and bars, many of which are owned by some of the biggest names in the business, from Blake Shelton to Luke Bryan and Miranda Lambert. Quite a few of you made their way there this summer. Peggy hit some of the city’s most popular music venues, like the legendary Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. Here’s his photo contribution.
5. The Carolinas
Just a short, and not horribly expensive flight away are the beautiful beaches and quaint cities of South Carolina. From Myrtle Beach to Charleston, the Outer Banks to Elizabeth Town, our listeners love the Carolinas. Samantha Lynn commented that she vacationed at Myrtle Beach and “didn’t want to leave!” Thanks for the gorgeous photo, Samantha!
6. Florida
Such an easy trip to Florida and of course it’s always more affordable to visit in the summer, but man can it get hot down there. Listener Michele vacationed at St. Augustine and contributed this photo:
Erin got ahead of the heat with a trip to Disney in May, and shared this pic:
7. Pennsylvania
It funny, this year more than ever, I’ve heard from friends and acquaintances that they did trips to PA. Hershey seemed to be the go-to this year for many. Listener Joe was all over the map this summer, including Eerie Pennsylvania where the photo he shared was taken:
Ed veered off the main path to visit Western Pennsylvania, and sent along this photo:
8. Alaska
It’s a dream, for so many of us. The natural beauty of Alaska calls, and quite a few of you answered the call this summer. Keri Lynn grabbed an amazing shot to share. It’s so stunning, it almost looks fake.
9. Vermont
Listener Donna headed to the Green Mountain State this summer, and she certainly wasn’t alone. Burlington is always popular. I’m heading there in the Fall. But Donna chose Mt. Snow for these incredible views and fresh air!
10. New York
Some of us love the hustle and bustle and all that NYC has to offer. But others prefer the quiet of the Lakes region. Have you ever been to the Finger Lakes? It’s gorgeous, and of course there are many vineyards and wineries to visit there. But, Heidi made Lake George her vacation dreamland for a getaway this summer. Thanks for the beautiful pic, Heidi!
