Last updated on September 28th, 2025
The US is overflowing with beautiful places to visit. Bustling cities abuzz with the latest trends in food and entertainment, sprawling gorges of red rock baked dry in the sun, deep and cool forests, and fresh ocean vistas. There’s so much on offer that it can be hard to choose where to spend your summer vacation. But the locations highlighted below make it easy.
These cities have been cited as the hottest summer spots in the country in research recently conducted by BetMGM Casino. Thanks to the details they shared, we’ve been able to put together this “summer must-see and do” itinerary for a rewarding summer vacation at each destination that proves why they’re a top choice.
- Los Angeles, CA
The vibe in LA is second to none, especially as temperatures begin to soar in the summertime. This dynamic city offers the best of both worlds: a chance to kick back and relax in true California style and a wide selection of activities that will keep you busy all day long. The research by BetMGM Casino reveals that LA is full of exciting or calm things to do this summer that, coupled with the immaculate vibes of the city, make it the perfect place to be this sunny season.
Dining
Venice Beach Club
This brand new Venice Beach eatery embraces the laid-back, artistic soul of the area and meets it with the sophistication and elegance of the Italian coastline in the summer. Enjoy refined Mediterranean decor and craft cocktails, as well as a delicious menu.
Perch LA
Perched (pun intended) on the 15th floor overlooking the city, Perch takes inspiration from classic French restaurants. The restaurant’s ambiance is bohemian and fresh, with beautifully detailed woodwork on the interior and lush, comfortable, and welcoming on the exterior, with dramatic fireplaces on display. The lounge on the 16th floor is an extension of the restaurant and offers incredible 360-degree views.
Entertainment
- Take a beautiful horse ride on the Mulholland Trail for stunning views and a chance to hang out with some gorgeous four-legged friends.
- Book a yacht cruise at sunset and go sailing into the blue while the summer sun sinks below the waves.
- Enjoy an open-air concert at the Hollywood Bowl. This venue is a quintessential LA stop, and the concerts there have the best energy imaginable.
- New York City, NY
New York is a wonderful city to visit, no matter the time of year, but in the summer it really does feel like a microcosm (not that there’s anything micro about New York) of magical, nostalgic good times. Because many of the city’s permanent inhabitants try to secure out-of-town lodgings during the summer, leaving the streets a little calmer than they would usually be, New York is a different experience in summer: alfresco meals at the cities best eateries, sunsets at the park, street festivals, days at the beach…you name it, they’ve got it.
Dining
Refinery Rooftop
Get off the streets but stay outside under an endless NYC sky at Refinery Rooftop. The views are awe-inspiring to say the least, and the menu is approachable but still refined: think octopus salad, double patty burgers, and the like. The cocktail list is exhaustive, and the design-industrial meets warm with repurposed wood and exposed brick is exquisite.
Da Andrea
Imagine eating in a bright summer garden with dramatic dark wood touches that add a “step back in time”, slightly Parisian feel to the whole thing… but it’s in the middle of a city. With locations in Chelsea and Greenwich Village, Da Andrea is a firm favorite as a neighborhood Italian bistro that’s leveled up.
Entertainment
- Coney Island is a must, even for travelers who don’t usually enjoy amusement parks. The nostalgic feel of the place will warm any heart. It brings the summer vibes like nowhere else.
- Pack a delicious picnic, grab a blanket, and spend the day in the sun or shade at Central Park. The park really comes alive with a cross-section of New Yorkers in summer.
- Take it easy with an open-air movie (many of these are free) at different locations all over the city on summer nights.
- Chicago, IL
The thriving arts scene in Chicago really takes off in the summer, giving the city a vibrant feel and a buzzing, energetic atmosphere. Be like the locals and embrace the warm weather with outdoor, waterfront dining, wholesome park picnics, gorgeous nature, and a collection of festivals and events that rival those in the US’s biggest cities. Eating your way through the city, with all its culinary delights and diverse restaurants, is another summer must-do.
Dining
Friends of Friends
The cocktails at Friends of Friends are cool, to say the least. Though it is principally a drinkery, this West Town spot takes you back in time a little as you kick back and nibble on some delectable bar snacks while you sip.
The Duck Inn
If you enjoy the humble hot dog (the unofficial food of the summer), then the laid-back Duck Inn is for you. The vibe is that of spending time in a secluded backyard with friends, and the brioche buns are nothing short of spectacular.
Entertainment
- Those who like to stay active could spend a sunny summer day hiking the Lakefront Trail. The views are stunning, and working up a sweat is guaranteed.
- Visit the Navy Pier for peak summer atmosphere. Food, family-friendly fun, and plenty of photo ops.
- Embrace the arty vibe of the city with a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago when it’s too warm to be outside.
- Attend the Chicago Jazz Festival or one of the many other excellent summer music festivals across the city.
Summer Ready
These summer spots are the perfect choice for the best summer vibes, entertainment, and experiences. Which one do you think you’ll visit first?
