12 Picture-Perfect Places to Take Pictures This Summer in the U.S.

Charles Wallace
Jun 4
2 min read

A straw hat, sunglasses, vintage camera, and yellow drink with a straw on a wooden table in front of a blurred brick wall background.

What are the best places to take pictures during summer in the U.S.?

Some of the best places to take pictures in the U.S. during summer include national parks like Yosemite and Glacier, vibrant coastal towns like Cape Cod and Santa Barbara, and urban hotspots such as Charleston and Chicago’s lakefront. These destinations offer rich natural light, lush scenery, and vivid color—perfect for capturing the spirit of summer.

From golden hour beach shots to high-altitude alpine views, summer is the season for photography. If you’re planning a trip—or even just a weekend drive—you might be asking: Where are the best places to take pictures that actually feel like summer?

We’ve curated a list of destinations across the U.S. that offer both iconic backdrops and hidden gems, ideal for photographers, content creators, and everyday memory-makers.

Why Summer Is the Ultimate Season for Photography

Summer’s longer days and vibrant colors create perfect conditions for photography. Whether you’re a professional or just love capturing moments on your phone, the right setting can transform a simple photo into a frame-worthy image. The challenge isn’t finding the time—it’s knowing the best places to take pictures that match your summer vibe.

12 Summer-Ready Places to Take Pictures in the U.S.

Here are some standout spots—from coastlines to city streets—where your camera will thank you.

Coastal landscape with cliffs, trees, and a waterfall flowing onto a sandy beach. Ocean waves crash onto rocks under a vibrant sunset sky. Big Sur, CA.

1. Big Sur, California

Iconic cliffside views, foggy mornings, and golden sunsets make this a must for coastal landscapes.

Majestic mountain landscape with a turquoise lake, rocky peaks, and vibrant wildflowers under a bright blue sky. Peaceful and serene mood. Glacier National Park, MT.

2. Glacier National Park, Montana

Dramatic peaks, turquoise lakes, and wildflower-strewn trails. Bring wide-angle lenses and hiking boots.

Tree-lined path with arching branches and Spanish moss, bordered by pink flower bushes. Few people in the distance. Serene, sunny setting. Savannah , GA.

3. Savannah, Georgia

Spanish moss, cobblestone streets, and pastel houses give every frame a timeless Southern feel.

Person stands on rocks at a cave entrance overlooking a sandy beach and ocean. Dark rock walls frame the scene, creating a serene, natural vibe. Oregon Coast, OR.

4. The Oregon Coast

Dramatic rock formations, misty mornings, and wide beaches offer endless coastal inspiration.

Colorful historic buildings in shades of blue, cream, and orange line a sunny street with palm trees. Clear blue sky in the background. Charleston, SC.

5. Charleston, South Carolina

Historic architecture, colorful row homes, and tropical gardens—perfect for portraits or travel reels.

Wooden dock extends over calm water, with boats moored alongside. Grassy shore and trees in the background under a soft, sunny sky. Hamptons, NY.

6. The Hamptons, New York

Think seaside sophistication: sailboats, beach cottages, and windswept dunes at sunset.

Majestic canyon landscape with red cliffs, green valley, and blue sky with fluffy clouds. Pine branches in the foreground. Zion National Park, UT.

7. Zion National Park, Utah

Fiery sandstone cliffs meet vibrant summer skies. The Narrows hike is a must for adventurous photographers.

Serene lake scene with clear turquoise water, surrounded by pine trees and rocky shores. Sunlight filters through creating a peaceful vibe. Lake Tahoe, CA/NV.

8. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Clear water, pine forests, and mountain backdrops. Sunrise paddleboard sessions = content gold.

Two people cycling along a waterfront with a city skyline in the background. The clear sky and water create a serene mood. Chicago Lakefront, IL.

9. Chicago Lakefront, Illinois

For urban summer vibes: skyline meets lake, with trails, piers, and public art in between.

Sandy path through dry grass leads to a cloudy beach and choppy ocean waves, creating a serene and moody coastal scene. Cape Cod, MA.

10. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Quaint towns, windswept beaches, and striped lighthouses—the essence of East Coast summer.

Adobe-style building with a terracotta roof against a blue sky. Barren trees and spiky green plants are in the foreground. Santa Fe, NM.

11. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Adobe architecture, desert blooms, and high-desert sunsets create a warm, earthy palette.

Red rock formations and green shrubs under a blue sky with wispy clouds in a desert landscape. The setting is tranquil and vast. Sedona, AZ.

12. Sedona, Arizona

Red rocks glow in the summer light. Ideal for golden hour shoots and dramatic landscape frames.

Whether you’re after beach scenes, mountain hikes, or small-town charm, these places to take pictures offer the color and atmosphere that define summer.

Captured Something You Love? Make It Last.

Once you’ve explored these stunning places to take pictures, don’t let your images sit on your phone or memory card. Turn your favorite summer shots into high-quality prints that last a lifetime.

At Artbeat Studios, we specialize in premium metal, canvas, and acrylic prints that bring your photography to life—with color, clarity, and craftsmanship that matches the moment.

Print Your Summer Memories with Artbeat Studios