As this winter’s polar vortex slowly releases the country from its icy clutches and we get a chance to defrost, thoughts naturally turn to warm summer fun. The best vacations usually include a beautiful locale, a fun, laid-back atmosphere, and plenty of summery drinks to melt the snow boots and mittens of winter into distant memories.

Cities That Let You Drink on the Street (Slideshow)

What better way to swing into summer mode than a getaway to one of America’s few towns with lax open container laws, where you can sip your cocktail as you take in the sights?

The majority of U.S. cities have ordinances prohibiting the consumption of alcohol in public spaces, such as the street and public parks, but there are a few places left where locals and tourists alike are allowed to take their beverages to go, making for some pretty exciting sightseeing.

Of course, there are many cities that wave open container laws for festivals, parades, tailgating, and public concerts, but that’s not what we’re focusing on in the following slideshow.

All of the towns featured in this article have either designated sections of the city where adults are allowed open containers, such as Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee, or no regulations on open containers whatsoever, such as the picturesque town of Hood River, Oregon.

It’s probably no coincidence that many of the cities on this list, like New Orleans and Las Vegas, are widely regarded as the nation’s “anything goes” party spots.

However, if spring break-style revelry is not your idea of fun, there are plenty of others for the history buff, such as Savannah, Ga., and the naturalist (Montana anyone?) So whatever your travel style, if you like your R & R with a toddy or two, we’ve comprised a comprehensive list of gorgeous locations for your summer sojourn.