SmartHomeOwners

Whether you live in the U.S. or Canada, both offer amazing cities and sites for a fun, relaxing summer retreat.  Let's explore the top 10 tourist spots in both countries.

Canada's Top Five Summer Destinations

Many tourists are awed by Canada's natural beauty.  From majestic mountains to inviting beaches and even well-groomed cities, there are plenty of thrilling destinations from coast to coast.  Here are five you should definitely consider for a summer getaway.

1.  Vancouver, British Columbia offers excitement at every turn with plenty of summer activities for tourists.  Summer visitors can enjoy the city's hopping night life, whale watching at the beach, boating, hiking, camping and plenty of wildlife.  Vancouver's summer weather is pleasant but not too hot.  It's a great place to explore the great outdoors while having all the city's amenities within reach!

2.  Montreal, Quebec offers tourists a taste of France with some of the most delectable cuisine and finest restaurants in the world.  Montreal invites summer goers to tour historic buildings, visit the numerous French shops, and relax while watching the picturesque sunrise and sunset over the city's port.  It's like being in another world entirely for those who are interested in Quebec's French culture.

3.  Niagara Falls, Ontario captivates visitors every time with its awe-inspiring horseshoe falls, gushing rapids and turquoise-blue water with white caps in the gorge that flows from the falls.  And there's plenty of fun stuff to do for tourists.  Take a boat ride on the "Maid of the Mist" that floats right next to the falls.  Visit the attractions on the main strip, see the falls from a helicopter, take a trolley or bus tour, or spend a day at Marineland amusement park.  At night, be sure to watch the falls while being highlighted in various colors under amazing spotlights!

4.  Ottawa, Ontario is Canada's capital city, so it naturally offers much in cultural attractions for those wanting to know more about Canada.  The city features world class museums, numerous educational sites, great restaurants and more.  For water lovers, the Rideau Canal provides leisure boating during warm months.

5.  Kelowna, British Columbia is located among the Canadian Rockies in a river valley called Okanagan Valley.  Kelowna attracts many vacationers each year, especially those who love to golf or relax on the beach.  There are lakeside cottages - perfect for family vacations or romantic summer getaways.  And don't forget to try the valley's delicious apples and wine!

Summer Getaways in the U.S.

Those seeking summer fun in the U.S. will want to visit these five hot spots.  There's something for every family or couple...whether they want to relax on the sizzling hot beaches or take a mountainous adventure.

1.  Washington, D.C. is not only the nation's capital city, but also one of the top summer destinations.  Folks from around the world enjoy touring the many museums and galleries, including the popular Smithsonian Institute.  The city's highlights include the Washington Monument, the White House, the Capitol Building, the Pentagon Building, the Lincoln Memorial and many other intriguing sites.

2.  Yosemite National Park, California allures nature lovers each summer.  It's one of the most beautiful national parks in the world and flourishes with activity for adventure seekers of all ages.  The park features not only breathtaking scenery, but also biking, golfing, rock climbing, hiking (for all skill levels), camping, water sports and rafting, horseback and mule rides, guided tours, educational programs, and much more!

3.  Orlando, Florida invites folks to experience Walt Disney World and plenty more.  Orlando is a popular family getaway thanks to all the exciting attractions and parks.  Sea World and Universal Studios are always family favorites, along with Orlando's water parks, gardens, zoos, science centers, dinner shows, shopping venues, tours and more.

4.  Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its casinos and world-famous entertainment venues, but families can also find plenty to see and do in this hopping "desert town!"  Dine with the kids at the Rainforest Cafe.  Then tour Las Vegas' many family-friendly attractions such as Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, the MGM Grand Lion Habitat, Circus Circus, Pole Position Raceway, Lied Discovery Children's Museum, Red Rock Canyon (for hiking), and the Shark Reef (Mandalay Bay).

5.  Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a summer hot spot that attracts families and couples from around the world.  It's known for the numerous golf courses, but also for gorgeous sandy beaches, hundreds of hotels, great dining, shopping, and family-friendly activities.  Check out the hundreds of shops and attractions at Broadway at the Beach.  Sunbathe for a while or take a swim in the warm Atlantic Ocean.  Take the kids to a water park, or visit the local zoo or aquarium.  Ride a banana boat or rent a boat of your own!  Fish on a pier, see a great music show or stroll along the newly constructed boardwalk!