Where to go for Vacation? July 2-6

[prohornblower]

OK, so we (gf and I) just found out she will have the week of July 2nd off. I haven't used any of my 2 weeks vacation yet this year, and if we don't go anywhere in July, we won't be able to vacation until Thanksgiving.

So...basically I'm looking for "last minute" vacation deals. And because we didn't know we'd have this week off, we haven't really planned anything...BUT...we have some ideas.

For reference we live in Houston.

Vegas...yeah, no explanation necessary. Pro = it's Vegas.
Con + the whole "been there/done that" thing.

Chicago...I've been there a few times and I told her it's a world class city that we need to go to together some day. Weather-wise, Chicago in July would be a huge upgrade over Houston. The Con is that I don't really know the city well enough for last-minute planning.

San Francisco...I've never been, but think it would be a great place to visit during this time of year. I love cool, windy weather (she hates it) and I'm sure there is plenty to do there. She's been to SoCal once; I've never been to California.

Boston...another great city that I've never been near. There are several things I would enjoy about Boston...the history, the old architecture, and a road trip to Cape Cod (I'm assuming). Neither of us has been there. One of the con's is that I think, like Chicago, it would be tough to plan a comprehensive trip to Boston on short notice, and I don't know if 5-7 days is enough to get to know the city.

St. Louis...my place of birth, and I've always wanted to go back home and show her around. She's never been. Pros are that I have family there, and it is cheaper than the other cities listed. Also, I know how to navigate the place and so it would be "easy" to do.

Please list reasons why I should or shouldn't visit the 5 cities listed. Gambling is a plus. I don't really know much (in terms of teh gambool) about these cities, but I know San Jose has a Casino (right?...but it's a good trek from SF) and St. Louis has riverboat gambling.

Thanks!!! Oh, also, if anyone knows where I can find the best last-minute deals for airfare for 2 and hotel (and if possible, rental car), let me know!

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