In 2025, as climate change intensifies summer heatwaves across the U.S., affluent travelers are turning to chill destinations and coolcation spots to redefine what it means to take a break from the sun. Enter the rise of coolcations—a growing luxury travel trend where wealthy Americans intentionally seek out cooler climates to escape the sweltering heat of traditional beach resorts. This shift isn’t just about temperature—it’s about elevating summer travel into an experience that feels refreshing, exclusive, and revitalizing.
The Rise of the Coolcation Trend
Unlike traditional summer vacations that revolve around tropical beaches and poolside cocktails, coolcations offer crisp air, mountain landscapes, and less crowded destinations. These trips are becoming increasingly popular among high-net-worth individuals looking to beat the heat without sacrificing luxury. Whether it’s hiking in the Swiss Alps, glacier kayaking in Alaska, or cozying up in a Scandinavian forest retreat, the coolcation is all about embracing serenity in cooler surroundings.
The concept is catching fire on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where influencers showcase snowy spa getaways, foggy cliffside resorts, and alpine villas. Travel agencies have noticed the shift too, now curating specific packages for clients who request destinations with daytime temperatures below 70°F.
Top Coolcation Destinations in America
While international spots like Iceland and the Faroe Islands are gaining popularity, America offers plenty of stunning cooler-climate destinations for luxury travelers.
1. Aspen, Colorado (in the Summer!)
Known for its ski culture, Aspen transforms into a peaceful summer haven with its cool mountain air, art festivals, and elite wellness retreats. Think private cabins overlooking wildflower meadows and five-star resorts offering guided hikes followed by in-room massages.
2. Bar Harbor, Maine
This charming coastal town is a hidden gem for coolcationers. With temperatures rarely breaking 75°F, Bar Harbor offers refreshing sea breezes, stunning cliffs, and luxury harborfront inns. Rich travelers indulge in lobster dinners, yacht excursions, and private nature tours through Acadia National Park.
3. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
The high elevation keeps things pleasantly cool even in July. Luxury lodges, lakeside villas, and elite golf resorts cater to upscale tourists. Water activities, forest trails, and spa retreats create the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure in a crisp climate.
4. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Situated near Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole is a rustic-chic retreat where temperatures remain comfortable and views are breathtaking. Upscale travelers rent private log mansions, dine on gourmet bison steak, and enjoy horseback riding through cooler mountain terrain.
Why Rich Americans Are Embracing Coolcations
Comfort Without the Sweat
Luxury travelers prioritize experience—and sweating through a five-star excursion isn’t part of the dream. Coolcations allow for stylish layers, long walks, and outdoor fine dining without oppressive heat.
Less Crowds, More Privacy
Many coolcation spots are off the beaten path. This means fewer crowds and more privacy—two essentials for high-profile guests seeking quiet. Private islands in Alaska or discreet cabins in Vermont offer isolation with elegance.
Wellness Meets Weather
Cooler climates align with wellness-focused lifestyles. From cryotherapy and forest bathing to clean air and fewer allergens, these destinations support the physical and mental health that wealthy individuals increasingly prioritize.
Eco-Conscious Appeal
Coolcations also appeal to eco-conscious luxury travelers. Destinations like Montana and British Columbia offer sustainable eco-resorts, off-grid accommodations, and immersive nature experiences without compromising comfort.
Coolcation Travel Experiences That Redefine Luxury
Beyond destinations, it’s the curated experiences that elevate coolcations into elite journeys. Think private glacier tours via helicopter, bespoke thermal spa rituals in Iceland, or guided meditation in Nordic treehouses. Personal chefs create warming menus rich in seasonal herbs, while high-end brands offer custom gear for stylish cold-weather travel.
Luxury travel agencies now include coolcation planning as a core service. Concierge teams handle everything from insulated Bentley rentals to personal stylists who prep cool-weather wardrobes. For the ultra-wealthy, coolcations are less about escape and more about entering an alternate, more serene version of summer.
The Future of Summer Travel
As summer temperatures continue to climb, coolcations are not just a passing trend—they’re becoming the future of luxury summer getaways. More elite resorts are expanding into cooler territories, and designers are releasing cold-season capsule wardrobes to support the movement. From luxury domes in the Rockies to cliffside suites in Oregon, coolcation culture is here to stay.
For travelers who once equated summer with beachside sunbathing, the new narrative offers something far more refined: calm, clean air, fewer people, and an experience rooted in peace and privacy.
Explore Further:
Cool Travel Experiences in Alaska for Summer 2025
Wellness and Wilderness: Aspen Summer Luxury Retreats
Top Luxury Lodges in Jackson Hole, WY
Note: Always confirm weather forecasts and seasonal availability before booking your next coolcation.
Also read : Discover America’s Most Luxurious Movie Theaters in 2025
