8 Summer Festival Destinations That Fuel Your Wanderlust

Where: Milwaukee, WI
When: June 24-28 and June 30-July 5
What to expect: This is the world's largest music festival, and with 11 stages and 11 days of music, Summerfest has tunes for everyone. Stay in the heart of downtown and check out the city that's filled with charm while walking the Riverwalk.

Where: Gilroy, CA
When: July 24-26
What to expect: Along with cooking demonstrations and competitions, get ready to eat all things garlic at the Gilroy Garlic Festival. Stay in town, and after enjoying the festival, day trip to Santa Cruz or just drive scenic Highway 1.

Where: Dover, DE
When: June 18-21
What to expect: Lots of music. Sure, you can camp on site, but you can also take advantage of the surrounding city of Dover when checking out the Firefly Music Festival. Explore the historic city, check out the Biggs Museum of American Art, or savor a craft beer downtown.

Where: Newport, RI
When: July 24-26
What to expect: This festival has been on the scene since the 1960s, making it a must for any folk-music-lover — but even if it's not your thing, the Newport Folk Festival has something for everyone. And it's located at Fort Adams State Park right in Newport, offering stunning views of Newport Harbor. Most locals enjoy listening to the music from the bay, which makes it a fun spot for people-watching too.

Where: Chicago
When: July 8-12
What to expect: The festival showcases food and music, making booking a visit to the city worth it for hitting Taste of Chicago. After eating your way through the festival, shop the historic downtown, visit the Art Institute of Chicago, or be awed by the animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Where: Los Angeles
When: Aug. 27-30
What to expect: Book a hotel in LA and get ready to enjoy some of the most delicious trends in food and wine. The Los Angeles Food and Wine Festival is a culinary experience for foodies that's filled with the sights and sounds of Los Angeles.

Where: Sausalito, CA
When: Sept. 5-7
What to expect: The Sausalito Art and Wine Festival is a weekend celebration of art and wine and is one of the oldest open-air art events. It's located just over the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, so you can stay in the city and take a ferry ride for a memorable day at the festival.

Where: Rocklandbrand>, ME
When: July 29-Aug. 2
What to expect: Not only will you get to nosh on lots of lobster, but also get ready for hands-on interactions with local marine life, a big Lobster Festival Parade, and nightly entertainment. Explore the town of Rockland and take in the quaint town that's filled with coffee shops, bookstores, and the Maine Lighthouse Museum.