The month of July is the perfect time to set out for a family vacation. Relax on the beach in San Diego, California, or explore the history of the country in Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia. From Chicago to Seattle, there are an abundance of landmarks and attractions to see, as well as cozy and luxurious United States vacation rentals to stay at. Check out the best July vacation destinations when planning your summer getaway.
1. Seattle, Washington
Opt for a cozy vacation rental in the heart of Seattle, one of the most popular summer vacation destinations in July. Beyond the attractions that include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, Pike’s Place, and the Space Needle, Seattle also features festivals, fairs, and city celebrations. The Seattle Chamber Music Society hosts a summer festival each year with recitals free of charge before every show. Join in the fun at the White Center Jubilee, a festival that includes a weekend parade, street fair, carnival, and car show in July each year.The International District also features its Dragon Fest each July, which includes a Bollywood performance, Chinese martial arts, Asian cuisine, and live Korean drumming performances.
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2. Asbury Park, New Jersey
July is the prime time to grab a vacation rental near this Jersey shore town that offers access to beaches and fun in the sun. In July, the weather is just right for swimming, canoeing, and boating, and the fresh fruit is ripe and ready for the taking when the AP Sunset Farmer’s Market opens mid-month. Pick your own fruits and vegetables for dinner back at your condo, cottage, or beachfront property. July is also when the Asbury Park Boardwalk hosts live musical performances by local and national artists. Stop over at the boardwalk’s water park to cool off, and then grab a bite to eat at the Stony Pony or the Wonder Bar.
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3. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is often thought of as a prime vacation destination during the winter months, but the city has much to offer vacationers in July with the Newport Folk Festival and Newport Jazz Festival. Tap your feet to the music all day long before taking a night cruise on the Hinckley Yacht. The city is also home to the Cliff Walk, which allows you to view million-dollar mansions from afar.
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4. San Diego, California
Crashing waves, sandy beaches, and fine dining establishments are often the draw to San Diego in July, but there’s much more to do and see during the summer months in this city. Celebrate the Fourth of July with a bang when viewing the Annual Big Bay Boom or the Ocean Beach fireworks display. July also brings ComicCon fans to San Diego for the annual convention. Seek out fun and adventure at the Del Mar racetrack, the San Diego Zoo, Legoland, or SeaWorld when vacationing in San Diego.
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5. Denver, Colorado
Hiking enthusiasts often flock to Denver, but in July, the area also sees a surge of music lovers. The Mile High City hosts the Underground Music Showcase, Chalk Art Festival, and Buffalo Bill Days for locals and tourists. Soak up the sun and the music before heading out for a hike or bike ride through the mountains to enjoy breathtaking views of the city.
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6. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville offers visitors stunning views of the river, historical monuments, and of course, Music Row. When traveling to Nashville in July, you can see one of the most popular summer music events hosted by the Country Music Association. Fan Fair draws well-known country and rock artists to the Broadway area, where you can enjoy some toe-tapping music before retreating to your vacation rental for some rest and relaxation.
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7. Baltimore, Maryland
If you’re seeking warm weather and cultural experiences that provide lasting memories, make Baltimore your vacation destination in July. Bring a little mystery into your day with a trip to the American Visionary Art Museum for the annual Great Mystery Show, or see the city’s landscape and history on the Frederick Douglass Path to Freedom walking tour at Fell’s Point. You and the kids can also jump on board a train at the B&O Railroad Museum to beat the summer heat.
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8. Washington, D.C.
There’s no better place to be on America’s birthday then the nation’s capital. Washington, D.C. pulls out all the stops with a Capital Fourth celebration complete with the National Independence Day Parade, live bands, and fireworks, right on Constitution Avenue. Within minutes from your Washington, D.C. vacation rental, you can embrace the history of the city with a visit to the World War II Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial.
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9. Key West, Florida
While away your days in the lap of luxury when sunning on the beach in sunny Key West, Florida. When you’ve had your fill of the beautiful beaches, participate in the many festivals held in July, such as the Annual Key Lime Festival and Mel Fisher Days. Key West is also home to the annual Mango Fest, complete with testing tents and featured chefs on site, as well as the Bacardi Key West Marlin Fishing Tournament.
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10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
What better place to celebrate life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in July than in Philadelphia? This historic city offers one of the best fireworks displays in the United States on the Fourth of July. Seek out Philadelphia’s colonial heritage, and then grab some classic eats at top restaurants such as the swanky Fish or Brick in Rittenhouse Square.
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11. Chicago, Illinois
Head to the Windy City in July to savor barbecue at the Windy City RibFest, an annual festival that includes live music, arts and crafts, food, and beverages on W. Lawrence Avenue. Liven up those days on the beaches of Lake Michigan with the Volleywood Electric Beach festival, which features a volleyball tournament and an electronic beach party. Take the kids to the observational deck at the Sears Tower for a towering view of Chicago before shopping until you drop on the Magnificent Mile.
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