Best Places To Visit In August.

It is time for me to head back to work after a wonderful summer of travel but some people wait to take their vacation.  August is the perfect month to visit some wonderful places both in the United States and overseas.

We are heading into the fall when some people plan trips just to see the changing leaves but that isn't August.

In August, you might consider going to Newport, Rhode Island with its mild, sunny weather, rocky coasts, and gentle breezes.  Newport, though, is known for its Jazz Festival at the beginning of August.  It is held at the Fort Adams State Park, a place with good views of both the harbor and the bay.  In addition, there is a cliff walk where you can wander along the edges to enjoy all that the area has to offer.

If you'd prefer something overseas, check out Budapest, Hungary with its summer festival running from June to September but in August they have the Festival of Crafts, held at Buda Castle, between August 17 to 20.  This festival has craft demonstrations, food, folk dance, and markets.  August 20th is also St. Stephens day and the day of Hungary's statehood, both are celebrated with a huge fireworks display.  In addition, the Sziget Festival runs from August 7 to 13 filled with music, performances, parties, and other fun activities.  If you are more into motor sports, check out the Hungary Grand Prix on August 2 to 4 just outside Budapest, and of course one has to visit the Great Market Hall filled with crafts, foods, and souvenirs.  The Great Market Hall is well over 100 years old.

On the other hand, if you'd rather stay in the United States, check out Laguna Beach, California with the final month of its Sawdust Arts Festival filled with artists, jewelry makers, photography, and so much more.  In addition, its also the last month of the Parent of the Great Masters where famous works of art are recreated by actors.  This is accompanied by a Festival of the Arts with workshops, activities, music, and tours to enjoy.


Then there is Edinburgh, Scotland with the month long Fringe Festival filled with nonstop entertainment such as drag shows,  cabarets, dance, theater, children's shows, and so much more.  This festival is considered the "worlds largest platform for creative performance". I passed through Edinburgh one year during the festival and it was well attended.  The Edinburgh Tattoo also happens during this same time at the Edinburgh Castle so you can enjoy both during the same visit.

Back in the United States, take a trip to Michigan because of all the wonderful events happening during August when the weather is perfect.  There are three different Jazz Festivals in Lancing, Grand Rapids, and Makinac Islands on different weekends.  Then one can attend two different film festivals, or a African American or Hispanic cultural festivals.  One mustn't forget the music festival in Frankenmuth with music from polkas to rock and roll and everything in-between.

Head over to Iceland during August because its the country's warmest month.  I visited Reykjavik a couple years ago in August and it was fantastic.  The weather wasn't too hot and it was nice.  This is a good time to see up to 20 species of whales as they migrate north from the Atlantic to the Arctic.  Its also the month puffins begin their migration.  There are awesome things you can see including the place where the two plates meet.  Although it can cost a bit to get there, the exchange rate is better for Americans.

These are some great places to visit during August.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.