Find out why Maryland, Michigan, Florida, and New Jersey are among this season's most popular destinations
For travel speech-language pathologists, summer is one of the most exciting times of year to start a new assignment. Whether you're supporting patients in a new setting, or simply looking for a change of scenery, summer contracts offer the perfect opportunity to combine meaningful work with memorable experiences. From waterfront communities and beach towns to vibrant cities and outdoor adventures, some states stand out as particularly attractive destinations for travel SLPs this season. If you're considering your next assignment, here are five summer hot spots worth exploring.
Maryland
Maryland offers travel SLPs a little bit of everything. Within a few hours, you can experience bustling city life, historic coastal towns, mountain scenery, and sandy beaches. This variety makes it an appealing destination for clinicians who enjoy having plenty of options on their days off.
Summer is the perfect time to visit the state's famous shoreline. Ocean City draws visitors with its boardwalk, beaches, restaurants, and amusement attractions. If you prefer a quieter escape, the Chesapeake Bay region offers charming waterfront communities, fresh seafood, and opportunities for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. History lovers can spend weekends exploring Annapolis, one of the country's oldest cities, while outdoor enthusiasts can venture west toward hiking trails and scenic overlooks in the Appalachian Mountains. Whether you're looking for relaxation by the water or active weekend adventures, Maryland provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy your time off assignment.
Michigan
Michigan becomes an outdoor playground during the summer months. Surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes, the state offers countless opportunities for travel SLPs who enjoy spending time near the water.
Many travelers are surprised by Michigan's beautiful beaches, which often feel more like coastal destinations than freshwater shorelines. Communities along Lake Michigan and Lake Huron offer sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and breathtaking sunsets. The state's northern regions are especially popular during summer. Traverse City is known for its scenic views, wineries, and access to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Mackinac Island remains one of Michigan's most unique destinations, where visitors can explore by bicycle or horse-drawn carriage while enjoying views of Lake Huron. For those who love outdoor recreation, Michigan offers hiking, kayaking, fishing, boating, and endless opportunities to explore nature between shifts.
Florida
Florida consistently remains one of the most sought-after destinations for travel healthcare professionals, and it's easy to see why. Summer assignments here place SLPs near some of the country's most famous beaches, attractions, and outdoor destinations.
The Gulf Coast offers beautiful white-sand beaches and calm waters, while the Atlantic Coast provides a mix of beach towns, surf culture, and vibrant coastal communities. Whether you're spending your weekends relaxing by the ocean or exploring local attractions, there's never a shortage of things to do. Nature lovers can visit the Everglades, explore freshwater springs, or kayak through mangrove tunnels. For those who enjoy entertainment and nightlife, cities like Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami offer dining, shopping, sporting events, and cultural experiences. Florida's year-round appeal and diverse settings make it an excellent option for SLPs seeking both professional opportunities and an active lifestyle.
New Jersey
New Jersey offers travel SLPs easy access to beaches, major metropolitan areas, and outdoor recreation all within a relatively compact state. The Jersey Shore becomes a major attraction during the summer months, with destinations like Cape May, Ocean City, and Long Beach Island offering beautiful beaches, boardwalks, and coastal charm. Whether you're looking to spend a relaxing day by the water or enjoy local restaurants and shops, there is no shortage of ways to unwind.
Beyond the shoreline, New Jersey offers access to hiking trails, state parks, and scenic outdoor spaces. Clinicians can also take advantage of the state's proximity to major cities, making day trips to nearby destinations an easy option during extended weekends. The combination of beach life, outdoor activities, and convenient access to urban attractions makes New Jersey an appealing destination for SLPs seeking variety during their assignments.
One of the biggest benefits of travel speech-language pathology is the ability to choose assignments that align with the lifestyle you want to live. Whether you're drawn to Florida's beaches, Michigan's lakes, Maryland's coastal communities, or New Jersey's mix of shoreline and city access, summer offers countless opportunities to experience something new.
The best assignments don't just help you grow professionally—they give you the chance to explore new places, create lasting memories, and enjoy experiences that extend far beyond the workplace. This summer, your next SLP assignment could be more than a job. It could be the adventure you've been waiting for.
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