School’s Almost Out! 10 Last-Minute Summer Trips Everyone Will Love


The countdown is on. School is almost out, and if summer travel planning somehow slipped through the cracks, don’t worry. There’s still time to pull off an unforgettable getaway.

Whether you’re traveling with kids, grandparents, friends, or your favorite travel crew, we’ve rounded up 10 quick-to-book summer trips that are fun, flexible, and easy to plan right now.

From road trips to beach escapes to city breaks, here are destinations everyone can agree on:

1. San Diego

Sunshine, beaches, zoo days, and family-friendly resorts make this an easy summer win. Note: San Diego isn’t super sunny in June. They call it June gloom for a reason. Book your trips in July and August to soak up the sunshine.
Perfect for: Families with kids of all ages
Book: Beachfront hotels, San Diego Zoo tickets, harbor cruises

2. Charleston and Kiawah Island

Charleston is the perfect mix of charming city streets and beach relaxation.
Perfect for: Couples, multigenerational trips, girls’ getaways
Book: Resort stays, carriage tours, island villas

3. Vancouver and Victoria

Easy international travel with stunning scenery, ferry rides, and city fun.
Perfect for: Families and groups wanting nature + city
Book: Harbor hotels, whale watching, Butchart Gardens tours

4. Lisbon

Lisbon is the best of Europe without the chaos. Great food, trams, beaches nearby, and family-friendly energy.
Perfect for: Families with older kids, friend groups
Book: Boutique hotels, Sintra day trips, food tours

5. Colorado Springs

Mountains, outdoor adventures, and cool summer temps.
Perfect for: Active families and multigenerational groups
Book: Resort stays, Pikes Peak Railway, Garden of the Gods tours

6. Traverse City

Traverse City offers easy lake access, a charming downtown, wineries, and endless summer vibes.
Perfect for: Families, couples, friend groups
Book: Lakefront resorts, dune tours, kayak rentals

7. Cancún / Riviera Maya

We love Cancún for its all-inclusive ease and nonstop sunshine.
Perfect for: Families, groups, zero-stress planners
Book: Resorts, snorkeling trips, cenote tours

8. Scottsdale

Yes, it’s warm, but summer rates in Scottsdale are amazing, and resorts go big on family fun.
Perfect for: Families looking for luxury on a budget
Book: Splashy resorts, spa stays, desert jeep tours

9. Dublin and countryside road trip

Fly into Dublin, grab a rental car, and explore castles, coastlines, and small towns. Use our Ireland itinerary to help plan your trip.
Perfect for: Families with teens, extended family groups
Book: Castle hotels, Cliffs of Moher tours, car rentals

10. Dallas Road Trip Escape

Consider a quick road trip from Dallas to Broken Bow, Hill Country, or Oklahoma City.
Perfect for: Last-minute planners and weekend warriors
Book: Cabins, vacation rentals, family attractions

Last-Minute Booking Tips:

✔ Be flexible with dates
✔ Look at midweek departures
✔ Bundle hotel + flights when possible
✔ Choose destinations with nonstop flights
✔ Book experiences now since popular tours sell out first

I truly believe that sometimes the best summer trips are the ones you book at the last minute.

Happy planning!

Kirsten

113 Cherry St. #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
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Kids Are A Trip/Groups Are A Trip

Kids Are A Trip is an award-winning website and your go-to resource for family travel inspiration. I cover everything from travel tips and packing guides to detailed itineraries for destinations worldwide. My goal is to make travel planning simple and fun, with actionable advice and real-life stories that resonate with families at every stage of life. Groups Are A Trip is for trips with friends, family reunions, and multigenerational travel. More Groups. More Trips. More Memories.

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