Summer is winding down, and the beginning of school is just around the corner. That means August is the perfect time for a parents' getaway or a long staycation. Here are the best options we've found for an end-of-the-summer adventure.
Domestic Destinations
- U.S. National Parks
August 25th marks the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service. In honor of the celebration, admission to all National Park Service sites will be free from August 25th to August 28th. Centennial birthday celebrations include events like youth stewardship projects, choir and symphony performances in beautiful outdoor locations, and even naturalization ceremonies in some of the most famous parks. The average American is within a day's drive of a national park, making for the perfect family excursion before the kids head back to classes.
- Portland, Oregon
Flights to Portland in August are half of what they were earlier in summer. That's a good thing with all of the festivals going on, and each one is quintessentially Portlandian. One of the year's premier city-wide events is The Bite of Oregon, a massive 3-day festival featuring the best options from all of the city's restaurants. It's more than just food, however. There's beer, wine, bands, and appearances by celebrity chefs. One of the more popular areas tends to be the line of food carts. That same Sunday is the Providence Bridge Pedal, which cements the city's bike-friendly status by partially closing 10 bridges for bike-only access. Finally at the end of the month is the Organic Beer Fest. Saving the planet has never been so tasty!
Adventures Abroad
- Rio de Janiero, Brazil
It might not be the best deal, but everyone will be there. Rio is taking center stage with the Olympics starting August 5th, and it's trying as hard as it can to put its best face forward. Things might have gotten off to a rocky start, but what party isn't complete without its fair share of problems. The two and a half weeks of athletic competition make for the perfect excuse to really explore all aspects of the city, not just the touristy sections. Listen to jazz at the Maze, try your hand at samba at Pedra do Sal, or wander through the vibrant and eclectic Favela Rocinha.
- Berlin, Germany
Oktoberfest is over a month away so why should you travel to Germany in August? Berlin's hotel rates in August are the cheapest you'll see all year, even as it hosts the International Berlin Beer Festival. While Munich's Oktoberfest may be the largest beer festival in the world, the IBBF features the world's longest beer garden. Whatever your taste, there will be no shortage of brews. If you're from a more humid climate, you'll enjoy Berlin's milder summers featuring temperatures in the mid-70s. Take the chance to explore the city by foot and discover its amazingly varied architecture, sometimes combining modern and historic styles on the same building.
