With the busy Fourth of July travel rush in the rearview mirror, now may be one of the best times to plan a late-summer escape. The Outside Insider Travel expert Janine Tornatore joined We Are Austin from Breckenridge, Colorado, to share some of her favorite destinations for travelers looking to enjoy cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and great seasonal deals at beautiful Marriott properties.
Escape the Heat in Breckenridge
While many people associate Breckenridge with ski season, Tornatore says summer and early fall offer a completely different, and equally beautiful, experience.
“Breckenridge is one of those places that, to me, is perfect for late summer because it is at 10,000 feet elevation,” she said. “Mid-70s during the day, those nice cool evenings, no humidity. It’s really that perfect cool escape.”
Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing and scenic gondola rides, along with chef-driven restaurants, art galleries and hands-on workshops in the Breck Create Arts District.
The mountain town was also recently designated a Dark Sky Community, making it an ideal destination for guided stargazing hikes, astronomy programs and even full moon yoga.
Those hoping to catch Colorado’s famous fall foliage can plan a trip in mid-September, when Breckenridge becomes one of the state’s first destinations to see golden aspen trees.
Escape the Heat in Breckenridge
Luxury Beach Vacations for Less
Late summer can also be a great time to book luxury beach resorts, thanks to lower demand and increased availability.
“One kind of pro tip here is that late summer is a time when you can trade up for those luxury resorts,” Tornatore said.
Among her recommendations:
The St. Regis Kanai Resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico, offering secluded luxury, multiple pools, seven restaurants and spa experiences surrounded by protected mangroves.The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, featuring newly renovated accommodations, beachfront dining, wellness experiences, golf and family-friendly amenities.
Luxury Beach Vacations for Less
Luxury Beach Vacations for Less
Add Mexico City to Your Itinerary
Tornatore also recommends pairing a beach vacation with a few days in Mexico City, which she says continues to grow as a destination for food, arts and culture.
Her hotel pick is The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, where every room includes a private terrace overlooking the city skyline.
“Mexico City is really great to pair with Riviera Maya or Punta Mita,” she said. “Hop on over for a few nights in the city.”
Add Mexico City to Your Itinerary
Start Planning Fall Travel Now
If a fall getaway is on your calendar, Tornatore recommends booking sooner rather than later, especially for popular destinations.
“You really want to start thinking about fall now,” she said.
While destinations like the Northeast and Great Smoky Mountains remain popular for autumn color, she suggests considering places like Colorado, the Great Lakes or the Midwest, where travelers may find more availability.
Many fall destinations also offer seasonal events, including Oktoberfest celebrations, film festivals and harvest activities alongside the changing leaves.
Escape the Heat in Breckenridge
For more travel inspiration, follow Janine Tornatore on Instagram at @TheOutsideInsider. Travelers interested in Breckenridge can visit GoBreck.com, while information about the Marriott properties mentioned is available at Marriott.com.