1. The Oregon Coast
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The Oregon Coast is scattered with amazing views, tide pools filled with starfish, and quirky places to visit like the Tillamook Cheese Factory. There are endless beaches and beach towns that you could spend your vacation at, or you could make it a road trip and travel up or down the coast. Some must see stops are Manzanita, Coos Bay, Haystack Rock, Otter Rock, and the Harris Beach tide pools
2. Sedona, Arizona
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Despite being extremely hot during the summer, Sedona is a great family friendly vacation destination. There is the Sedona Rock State Park, and numerous hikes to swimming holes and waterfalls that are good ways to cool off in Sedona’s summer heat. One of the best hikes in the area is Fossil Creek hike; the trail follows a creek with multiple swimming holes and waterfalls along the way.
3. White Sand Dunes National Monument, New Mexico
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What’s better than perfect white sand dunes that you can sled down? Nothing. The White Sand Dunes National Monument does not disappoint. Spend a weekend exploring the national park and go biking, sledding, and more. You can stay in a hotel around the area or go backcountry camping.
4. Redfish Lake, Idaho
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Only an hour away from the Small ski town, Sun Valley, Redfish Lake is one of Idaho’s best kept secrets. The glacier lake is surrounded by the Sawtooth Mountains, and is only one of the dozens of picturesque locations in the area. There is hiking, mountain climbing, horseback riding and boat rentals available at the lake. Redfish also has cabins and campgrounds available to rent out. The nearest town, Stanley, has restaurants (Smiley Creek is the best), stores and a few places to rent kayaks for river trips down the Salmon River.
5. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
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While Jackson Hole and the Tetons are a popular winter destination for skiing, not as many people visit during the summer months. The town is surrounded by the Teton mountains and is full of activities that will keep you busy. You can go rafting, hiking, biking, visit Yellowstone National Park or just explore the Jackson Hole town square.