Summer is always a great time to get away.
Whether it’s a quick drive north or a plane ride away, there are plenty of attractions and festivals that are worth the trip. These eight fests (plus a bonus, close-to-home option) offer something for everyone: music and food, a state fair, art and garden shows and even a film fest in Denver.
Whether you choose to stay local, or travel out of state and explore, we promise you won’t be disappointed.
1. Summerfest (June 25-29, July 1-6)
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
You only have 10 days left to purchase your tickets to the world’s largest music festival! This festival spans over 75 acres in downtown Milwaukee and takes place over 11 days. Pick and choose the shows you want to attend, but don’t miss headliners Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga or the Dave Matthews Band. Tickets and schedules are available online.
2. Film on the Rocks (June 24 to September 2)
Denver, Colorado
Watch classic films while enjoying breathtaking summer nights in mile-high Denver. It doesn’t get much better than outdoor movies at Denver’s Red Rocks Amphitheater. Enjoy the beautiful backdrop and take part in audience-participation contests before the movie. A musical guest or comedian will also perform before each show. Tickets can be bought online and range from $12-60.
3. Truckeroo Food Truck Festival (July 11, August 8 and September 12)
Washington, D.C.
Travel east to enjoy the finest food trucks in the D.C. area. Great food will be accompanied by live music and games of cornhole all day long. Cold drinks and picnic tables will help you make the most of the summer weather and surroundings. The festival takes place at the corner of Half Street and M Street and admission is free.
4. Ohio State Fair (July 23 through August 3)
Columbus, Ohio
Come celebrate Ohio’s history, and don’t miss out on unique attractions like the Pig Races or the Civil War encampment—and, of course, plenty of concerts and rides. You’ll find over 200 food vendors with food ranging from corn dogs to chocolate-covered bacon, and the fair’s notorious butter sculptures will amaze you. Enjoy the SkyGlider, a half-mile ride gliding over the festival at bird’s-eye view, and catch performances by Lady Antebellum, Heart and more. Tickets cost $8-10 and children under 5 get in for free.
5. Country Thunder (July 24-27)
Twin Lakes, Wisconsin
The 22nd Country Thunder Music Festival is approaching, and with performances by Thomas Rhett, Jason Aldean and Miranda Lambert, you won’t want to miss out on the action. You have the option to stay overnight at a campsite or spend the night at a nearby hotel. Tickets and campsites are available for purchase on the Country Thunder website, where you can find more information about the concert and the rest of the 2014 lineup.
6. Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival (August 1-2)
Cary, North Carolina
Enjoy more than 40 types of bourbon and 60 different beers at this rollicking fest. The great selection of barbecued food, cigars and live music (and unlimited beer and bouron tastings) will make this trip worth your while. Tickets range from $25 to $85, with a free souvenir glass upon entry. Along with the tastings, there are contests held on the main music stage and fun exhibits that feature BBQ sauces and accessories.
7. Park Avenue Summer Art Fest (August 2-3)
Rochester, New York
With more than 300 artists presenting their work, there are many reasons to travel to Rochester to experience the sights and sounds of the 37th Park Avenue Art Fest. Enjoy the surrounding boutiques, shops and over 60 musical guests playing funky Caribbean rhythms as well as jazz and blues. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. both days, but be sure to get there early to park in one of the free parking lots.
8. Austin Ice Cream Festival (August 9)
Austin, Texas
Come out to the 8th annual Austin Ice Cream Festival and enjoy any flavor of ice cream you can dream of—and even some you can’t! Take part in a popsicle- or ice-cream-eating contest and see how fast you can guzzle a gallon of ice cream. The event takes place at the Fiesta Gardens and the festival begins at 10:30 a.m.
Bonus: Kids in tow and looking for fun closer to home? Check out:
Sheffield Garden Walk & Music Festival (July 19–20)
Chicago
Walk through more than 80 gardens and guided architectural tours at the 46th Annual Sheffield Garden Walk. Musical entertainment will be provided by some of Chicago’s greatest bands and, of course, food and drink offerings will be plentiful. There’s also a kid’s corner to enjoy a moonwalk, a kiddie Ferris wheel and other fun activities. The event takes place at Webster and Sheffield and you can park at the DePaul University garage for just $7.
