A NOTE TO OUR READERS:
"A Star-spangled Vacation" is from the July 2007 issue of Southern Living. Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.

FOR MORE INFO:
Editors' City Guide: Washington, D.C.

DOWN TO DETAILS:
Read about Great Rates and Insider Tips.

Think fireworks. Think Founding Fathers. Think all-out family fun. Now's the time to plan that long overdue trip to our Nation's Capital. Things slow down in the summer months when government workers take vacations and Congress goes on hiatus. That translates into big savings. You'll get a great value, and your family will experience a vacation they'll never forget.

Welcome to the Neighborhood
Base your activities in D.C.'s up-and-coming Penn Quarter. Bordered by Pennsylvania Avenue on the south and New York and Massachusetts Avenues on the north, this area lies between the White House and the U.S. Capitol. Once shabby and neglected, it's now the district's hottest neighborhood.

We adore Hotel Monaco. It's a modern boutique hotel with bright colors, distinctive furnishings, and sumptuous linens. Weekend rates range $189-$309 (see "Great Rates"). Nearby chain hotels include Courtyard by Marriott, Grand Hyatt, and Marriott at Metro Center.

above: Take an evening tour of the monuments and landmarks.