Summertime is here again, which means embracing that “summer feeling.” Backyard BBQs, salty hair and tan lines, soft serve, drive-in movies, late sunsets, and balmy evenings. Whether you’re planning to stay in your state or head off for a vacation a little further afield, some places capitalize on summer in a way other cities haven't quite got the hang of yet. From beaches to parties to taking it easy in a hammock with a good book, BetMGM has done the hard work for you and found that these are the US’s most feel-good cities to spend your summer in.
1. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles average summer temp: 73.4°F (23°C).
The study mentioned earlier was in-depth and uncovered many interesting things about each of the feel-good cities on the list. LA has more than a few things counting in its favor:
- The best city for live music events
- The best overall summer temperature for indoor and outdoor activities
- A wide selection of wellness facilities and experiences
- An extensive array of beautiful, natural beaches.
Though LA is hardly an unknown destination, research by BetMGM Casino helps us uncover all the feel-good things and hidden-gem places the City of Angels holds. LA is famous for many reasons, with Hollywood being the only facet of this diamond-like city. The city is a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities, tastes, experiences, and people ready to share all this with the world. The city may be an urban environment, but you’re never more than a stone’s throw from some form of natural beauty, be it long, sandy beaches, green valleys, or gorges full of hiking trails.
Summer in Los Angeles means plenty of sunshine, with the average summer temperature hovering around 73.4 °F, so outdoor activities are a viable idea (don't forget your sunblock), and there are many publicly or privately accessible pools all over the city to help you keep cool. LA is also known for its collection of wellness locations and activities, a large portion of which are indoors. Consider classes like dance or yoga, relax and recharge with a Reiki session, or go the spa route with body wraps and facial treatments just like the ones used by celebrities.
Once all the pampering is done, choose from a world-class selection of restaurants featuring cuisines worldwide. Indoor or outdoor, Michelin star or food truck, there's no shortage of options wherever you look. Overall, summertime in LA is a California Dream.
2. New York, New York
New York average summer temp: 75.2°F (24°C)
New York, just like Los Angeles, hardly needs any introduction. That said, BetMGM’s research has found a few interesting things about the Big Apple:
- New York has the best access to ice cream when the summer temperatures soar
- NYC is the best city on the list to walk and bike around
- The best parks can be found in New York.
Though many native New Yorkers flee the city for summer locations like the Hamptons as early in summer as they can, something must be said for embracing the calm that descends upon the city in summer. BetMGM’s research has found that, given the scope of the population, the number of “feel good” activities and available locations is surprisingly high. NYC is known for iconic landmarks like the MoMA, the Museum of Natural History, and Central Park, all of which are enjoyable and accessible even in the hottest months, and while the city is emptier of tourists than it is during the festive season.
While getting from place to place on foot or two wheels may take longer, there is so much to see on the streets of New York that's best seen slowly rather than out of a taxi window. The 800+ hours of sun that shine down on the city in summer make a stroll around the neighborhood seem like an even better idea, and the fact that there are about 107 ice cream trucks driving around in a 1-mile radius from the city center makes any stroll a lot sweeter. Bring your pup (on a leash, of course) to any of the 158 dog parks, take a hike on 304 miles of nature trails, or dance your way through 29 (the number does change yearly) feel-good live music events.
3. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago average summer temp: 73.4°F (23°C)
Last, but certainly not least on the list is Chicago. BetMGM has a lot of interesting information on the city:
- It is the number one summer destination for lush, green spaces.
- Chicago has many outdoor dining establishments available all over the city.
Green spaces are everywhere in this beautiful city, translating into an abundance of clean, fresh air and many outdoor spots for the public to enjoy in warm weather. If fitness is your thing, several outdoor gyms perfectly combine summer energy with discipline. Outdoor dining is a joy in this lovely city, with more than 100 outdoor seating restaurants within a mile of the downtown area. Enjoy many water-based excursions and experiences, from renting a kayak or paddleboard to boat cruises, beaches, and waterfront dining.
There are many feel-good summer festivals, the most famous of which is Lollapalooza. BBQ festivals, music events, picnic meet-ups, and more make for an enjoyable full social calendar. Chicago has a lot to offer.
A Feel-Good Summer Awaits
Your feel-good summer is only as far away as any of these cities. Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago are all excellent choices for having a summer vacation or staycation of your dreams.
