9 Best City Breaks for a Summer Getaway

Famously branded "the theme park capital of the world", it's no surprise that Orlando is one of the best city break destinations in the US. Some even claim that this sun-drenched Floridian city is the most exciting city for pleasure and entertainment in the world. It’s the startling quality and variety of activities available to you in Orlando that really marks it out as something special.

It should be no surprise that the city’s world-class theme parks are among its top attractions. The range of white-knuckle rollercoasters, themed parades, and live-action stage shows available in Orlando is unparalleled. And the fun doesn’t stop at the city limits, with The Kennedy Space Center and several outstanding beaches reachable within 45 minutes from City centre Orlando.

Las Vegas is famed for its neon-drenched nightlife – and rightly so – but there’s so much more to this enigmatic city than bachelor stories. Yes, much of what makes Las Vegas the city it is takes place in and around the palatial casinos lining The Strip, but that doesn’t necessarily mean just gambling.

The live shows here are spellbinding, with world-famous artists and world-class entertainment taking to the stage 7 nights a week. There is an ostentatious streak that runs through Las Vegas, and this extends to mealtimes. Restaurants take inventive approaches to world cuisine here, whether it be caviar parfait or meatballs the size of your face.

With untouched nature backing onto popular surf beaches, Huntington Beach makes for a popular coastal city break in the Greater Los Angeles area. There’s a relaxed, family-friendly vibe to the town that has been lost in many other beach towns on the west coast. This is best felt by strolling down Main Street and browsing the stylish boutiques and independent merchants.

Locally known as Surf City, you’ll find plenty of beach breaks along the 8 miles of coastline here. The beaches are blessed with soft, golden sand and are wide enough for you to always feel secluded. Once you’ve had enough of the beach, take a tour of the International Surfing Museum, or head to the Pacific City shopping centre. This expansive retail space focuses on locally grown, artisanal products.

The enduring popularity of London as a city break destination is proof of its charm and character. Many of the attractions of the UK's capital city are historical in nature, but not all of them. From the palatial architecture of Westminster to the urban art of East London, there are endless experiences to enjoy in the English capital.

You can spend hours in museums, watch the finest performance art in the West End, hit the clubs and pubs of Soho, or simply walk in the footsteps of history’s great and good. If you’re here for shopping, it seems every niche is covered by some market or mall, and pop-up events seem to happen every season along the river.

As the cultural capital of the western world, it’s hard to find someone who isn’t intrigued by a trip to New York City. The range of attractions here is mind-blowing, with landmarks famed throughout the world – Times Square, Central Park, Broadway, and The Statue of Liberty, just to name a few. There’s no doubt that living it up in New York can get expensive, but there's a surprising range of budget-friendly things to do, as well as some free attractions.

Don’t expect to cover everything in a single visit to New York. This place has a strange lure that brings back visitors time and time again. It might be a better idea to choose an area that you’re most interested in exploring within the 5 boroughs and really getting under the skin of the city.

A thriving arts scene, proud history, and plenty of seasonal events make Chicago a memorable city break in the US. To see the city up close, take a stroll along the Magnificent Mile shopping avenue and the gentrified waterfront path known as the Chicago Riverwalk. It’s one of the finest urban trails in the US. You can also get a great overview of the so-called “Windy City” from sky-high observation lounges.

For a breath of air, head to the Museum Campus on the shores of Lake Michigan. You can find several fantastic museums and cultural centers here, as well as a beach with a full range of amenities, including lifeguards. Depending on the weather, you might even be tempted to go for a swim.

Cancun appeals to the summer crowds with its mix of serene and bustling beaches. The resort city also has many historical sites, nightlife venues, beachside restaurants, and all-inclusive accommodation overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Some of the busiest beaches in Zona Hotelera include Playa Forum, Playa Gaviota Azul, and Playa Tortugas. Dozens of bars and clubs line these shores, making them very popular with partygoers looking to drink and dance until late. If you prefer a quiet spot to unwind, Playa Chac Mool and Playa Langosta are great options. Both beaches have tide pools and rather gentle waves, making them great for families in Cancun.

Much of Seattle’s charm lies in its contrasts of modernist architectural wonders surrounded by verdant nature – think snowcapped mountains overlooking beautiful sandy beaches. For a bird’s eye view of the postcard-pretty city, a trip to the Space Needle observation deck affords views of Elliott Bay’s bustling waterfront, Downtown’s dazzling lights, and tree-covered Mt Rainier.

Another thing of note in Seattle: this area of the American Northwest has a thriving culinary arts scene, with some of the nation’s most inventive chefs and artisanal farmers and brewers making mealtimes truly special.

Los Angeles is a metropolis of many towns offering an incredible variety of experiences. Long days of blue skies and uninterrupted sunshine can be best enjoyed along the boardwalk at Venice Beach or Malibu. For a taste of film magic, there are few places than Hollywood and a tour of the Warner Bros. Studios for a look in the Batcave or a ride on Harry’s broom. If you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, the iconic Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is a must-visit.

Even the much-maligned City centre LA area has been revitalised thanks to a series of gentrification projects in anticipation of the 2028 Olympics.