Summer is a wonderful time to travel because the weather is so pleasant! This season also marks the peak of the growing period. This means that certain fruits and vegetables are only available fresh during the summer. We devised a plan to embark on a culinary journey to what we believe are the best summer travel destinations for food lovers!
Boston, Massachusetts
As a proud Bostonian with a deep appreciation for good food, I can confidently say our city is famous for its mouthwatering seafood, and we're also blessed with a vibrant selection of farmers' markets that cater to every kind of food lover! If you're in the mood for the freshest seafood, don't miss out on visiting one of Boston’s renowned seafood restaurants, where the day’s best catch awaits you.
For a more hands-on experience, why not stroll through one of our bustling farmers' markets? One gem I highly recommend is Haymarket, located in the historic marketplace by Faneuil Hall. It's open all year round on Fridays and Saturdays, from dawn until dusk, except for Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
If you’re looking to venture beyond the city limits, New England is dotted with charming roadside seafood shacks that are definitely worth a visit. A local favorite is The Clam Box in Ipswich, MA, famous for its delicious lobster rolls, which many locals claim are some of the best in the country!
If you can't make it to Boston in the summer, we highly recommend making the trek out to the suburbs to experience the Wayland Winter Farmers' Market. Held at Russell's Garden Center every weekend in Wayland, MA. Check their website for hours and weekly vendor themes. Go early or arrive late to avoid the bulk of the local crowds. This place is always hoppin'!
San Francisco, California
While Boston is the seafood hub of New England, San Francisco is an excellent culinary destination for those on the West Coast! Visitors can enjoy traditional favorites like sourdough bread, California seafood chowder, Dungeness crab, halibut, sea bass, and salmon. The city is also home to Ghirardelli Chocolate and is recognized as the birthplace of Irish coffee in the United States, a popular adult beverage made with coffee and Irish whiskey.
Portland, Oregon
Portland is a progressive culinary city that has been a favorite travel destination for foodies for years. It offers access to fresh seafood, and many of its restaurants are renowned for their creativity and innovation. One of the things that makes Portland so special is the relationship between the chefs and the local farmers. Whenever a great crop becomes available, the restaurants receive only the freshest selections. Visitors to the city can enjoy one amazing meal after another! Portland is also known for its vibrant artist community located in the Alberta Arts District.
New York City, New York
Finding a more diverse city than New York is a challenge. Whether you grab lunch at a famous deli, dine at one of the many ethnic restaurants, or savor a luxurious meal in the heart of downtown, there’s something for everyone! With many popular restaurants, chefs must be innovative to attract visitors. Additionally, there are plenty of activities here that don’t involve eating; however, the top-notch restaurants enhance the city's reputation as a premier gastronomic destination!
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a vibrant melting pot known for its fantastic ethnic restaurants and lively culinary scene. This makes it an ideal summer travel destination for food lovers! As a bonus, Chicago offers plenty of sights to explore. You can work up a healthy appetite while discovering the city and enjoy a great meal afterward. Perhaps some deep-dish pizza or a classic Chicago-style hot dog, to name just a couple.
Happy Travels!
No matter where your travels take you this summer, exploring the local cuisine of your destination is a fantastic way to broaden your palate and discover each city's attractions through a culinary journey! You don't need to venture far from home to find unique culinary experiences. All you need is an open mind and an open road to uncover your favorite Summer Travel Destinations for Foodies.
If you'd like to share your love for culinary experiences with someone who can't travel this summer, consider sending a gourmet gift right to their door! We are a family business located in beautiful Seacoast New Hampshire. Our family of employees would be delighted to help you choose the perfect gift, and they'll even recommend their favorite culinary destinations in New Hampshire if you ask!