Six epic North American adventures for summer

Golden sunsets over immense skylines, the hum of a city alive with energy, the promise of adventure 'round every corner - this is North America in the summer. Whether it's sun-soaked beaches, iconic streetscapes or world-class food scenes, your perfect Transatlantic getaway awaits. 

Imagine sipping cocktails on a rooftop in Manhattan, kayaking past Washington, DC’s monuments, or catching a Hollywood movie under the stars. With direct flights from Dublin to LA, New York, Toronto, Boston, Chicago, and DC, those dreams are just one non-stop flight away. So which city will you choose this summer?

Washington, DC: Momuments, museums and green oases

Washington, DC is where history meets modern vibrancy—a city of grand monuments, leafy boulevards and buzzing neighbourhoods that come alive in the summer sun. After arriving at Washington Dulles International you’ll soon get your bearings; wander through the Smithsonian museums (all free of charge), kayak on the Potomac River, or stroll the cobblestone streets of Georgetown, brimming with charming boutiques and cafés. For a meal, try Ben’s Chili Bowl (a DC institution) or Fiola Mare for waterfront dining with incredible seafood. For a quintessential summer experience, head to The REACH at the Kennedy Center—an open-air “living theatre” that hosting free performances all season.

Hidden gem: Explore Blagden Alley, a colourful, mural-filled district packed with hidden coffee shops, craft cocktail bars, and one of the city’s best-kept dining secrets, The Dabney (known for its farm-to-table Mid-Atlantic cuisine).

Toronto: your urban escape with a side of nature

Toronto is where cosmopolitan energy meets Canada’s great outdoors. Touch down at Pearson Airport and dive into a city of food, festivals and culture. Kensington Market is a summer favourite, a mad mix of global street food, vintage shops, and live music. Food-wise, you’re spoiled for choice—stop by Pai for Northern Thai food or Aloette for a stylish take on diner classics. For a break from the city heat, take the ferry to Toronto Islands for beaches, bike trails, and unbeatable skyline views. If you’re more about arts and culture, the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum offer world-class exhibitions (and great kids’ activities).

Hidden gem: Step into Graffiti Alley, a constantly evolving stretch of vibrant street art in the heart of downtown. It’s a great backdrop for photos and an immersive way to experience the city’s creative spirit.

New York City: a summer of iconic energy

Fly direct from Dublin or Shannon and arrive at JFK ready for a city that needs no introduction. In the summer, New York is electric—outdoor concerts, food markets and lazy afternoons in Central Park. Explore the High Line, a former railway turned urban park, and grab a bite at Chelsea Market. For something special, book a table at Via Carota in the West Village, a gorgeous Italian spot beloved by locals. Culture lovers should head to The Met’s rooftop for a drink with a view, while those chasing hidden gems can check out the speakeasy-style bars of the Lower East Side.

Hidden gem: Visit Governors Island, a peaceful retreat just a short ferry ride from Manhattan. Rent bikes, lounge in hammocks, and take in the stunning views of the city skyline—without the crowds.

Chicago: your perfect summer on the water

Chicago in summer is all about the lakefront. We’ll get you from Dublin straight to O’Hare—from the moment you step out, the city’s energy is contagious. Stroll the Riverwalk, rent a bike along Lake Michigan, or take in skyline views from an architecture boat tour. Chicago’s food scene is legendary—deep-dish pizza at Pequod’s, tacos at Birrieria Zaragoza, and inventive bites at Girl & the Goat. Culture? The Art Institute of Chicago is unmissable, as is catching live blues music in a cosy club like Kingston Mines on North Halsted. Head outdoors to Millennium Park for a movie night under the stars.

Hidden gem: Visit the Chicago Cultural Center, a hidden-in-plain-sight architectural gem featuring the world’s largest Tiffany stained-glass dome.

Boston: escape to culture and coastline

Boston balances old-world charm with modern energy and summer brings that mix to life. Flying direct from Dublin to Logan Airport means you’re minutes from the city centre. Wander the Freedom Trail to soak up history, then cool off with a lobster roll at Neptune Oyster in the North End. The Seaport District is buzzing with new restaurants, rooftop bars, and waterfront parks, while Fenway Park (home of the Red Sox) remains the ultimate summer experience for sports lovers. Hop on a ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands for some fresh air or drive up the coast to Cape Ann for a classic New England summer day by the sea.

Hidden gem: Head to the Mapparium, a stunning stained-glass globe in the Mary Baker Eddy Library that lets you step inside the world as it was in 1935.

Los Angeles: your sun-soaked west coast escape

Touch down in LA and step into a city where golden beaches, glittering lights and boundless energy set the stage for an unforgettable summer getaway. Whether it’s the laid-back, eccentric beach vibes of Venice, the star-studded streets of Hollywood, or the trendy enclaves of Silver Lake, summer in Los Angeles is about variety. Take a sunrise hike up Griffith Observatory for panoramic views, grab coffee and a pastrami sandwich at the famous Langer’s Deli, and spend the afternoon exploring The Getty Center. Want a perfect beach day? Malibu’s El Matador Beach is a stunning escape from the city. And for something uniquely LA, catch an outdoor movie screening at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.

Hidden gem: Discover the Sunken City in San Pedro, an eerie but beautiful site where a landslide swallowed a neighbourhood in the 1920s, leaving behind a graffiti-covered urban ruin with breathtaking ocean views.