Summer’s Best US Budget Getaways

Discover Amazing and Affordable Summer Travel Destinations in the US

Summer is the perfect time to escape and explore, and the good news is that you don’t have to break the bank to have an unforgettable vacation. The United States boasts a wealth of affordable destinations, offering everything from stunning beaches to breathtaking mountains and vibrant cityscapes. Here are a few ideas to get you started, along with tips on how to make your travel budget stretch even further.

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Explore the Windy City: Chicago, Illinois

Chicago truly shines in the summer months. With a vibrant atmosphere, you can enjoy countless festivals, bustling summer markets, and open-air concerts. While Chicago can be cold during other parts of the year, summer is the ideal time to experience everything the city has to offer.

To save money on accommodation, consider staying in nearby suburbs like Rosemont or O’Hare. These areas are close to the airport and offer easy access to the city center, just a 30-45 minute drive away. You can often find hotels in these suburbs, such as La Quinta or Comfort Inn, for as little as $40-$50 per night, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Immerse Yourself in Nature: Boise, Idaho

Boise is an unexpectedly fantastic destination for nature lovers. The city is surrounded by opportunities for outdoor adventures, many of which are either free or low-cost. Hike the scenic Boise Foothills, or try tubing down the Boise River with companies like Boise River Raft & Tube or Epley’s Boise River Rentals. The Boise River Greenbelt, a 25-mile walking and biking path along the river, is completely free to access.

Tubing or rafting down the Boise River typically costs between $20-$30 per person, including rental equipment and shuttle service. Boise also has a thriving food truck scene where you can find delicious and affordable meals.

Discover History and Culture: Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., is a treasure trove of historical landmarks and cultural attractions, and the best part is that many of them are free! Explore the National Gallery of Art, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History without spending a dime.

Public transportation in D.C. is inexpensive and efficient, making it easy to navigate the city. Consider staying in more affordable neighborhoods like Arlington to save on accommodation costs.

Embrace the Outdoors: The Black Hills, South Dakota

If you’re planning a road trip, the Black Hills of South Dakota offer incredible value. Many of the region’s main attractions, including Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and Custer State Park, are free or have minimal parking fees.

Bring your swimsuit, as there are numerous lakes, especially in Custer State Park, where you can take a refreshing dip. The area is popular for outdoor activities, so there are plenty of inexpensive campgrounds and cabins available for under $100 per night. Camping at Custer State Park, for example, costs around $25 per night. If you plan to visit multiple parks, consider purchasing a National Parks Annual Pass for $80.

Glamping in Style: White Salmon, Washington

For a unique experience, try glamping at Under Canvas Columbia River Gorge, a new Pacific Northwest retreat nestled on 120 acres in the White Salmon Valley. Located just an hour from Portland, this spot provides easy access to fantastic hiking trails, wineries, and the Columbia River, perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

The glamping site offers complimentary coffee, tea, s’mores, yoga, and games. Rates start at $252 per night, but you might find better deals in late summer.

Relax on the Gulf Coast: Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores, Alabama, boasts the same beautiful white-sand beaches as Florida, but at a fraction of the cost. You can often find beachfront condos or vacation rentals at surprisingly low prices. Spend your days hiking, exploring nature trails, fishing, or simply relaxing on the beach.

With plenty of affordable seafood shacks, breakfast spots, and BBQ joints, you can easily get by on a budget of around $150 per day, including lodging. For an even more budget-friendly option, pick up fresh shrimp or crab legs from Lartigue’s Seafood Market and cook them at your rental. If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying at Gulf State Park, which offers cabins and campgrounds starting at less than $50 per night.

Beach Getaway: South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island, a popular spring break destination, becomes more relaxed and affordable during the summer shoulder season. The island’s 30 miles of pristine beaches are the main attraction, and they’re free to enjoy.

Take a boat tour for dolphin watching for under $20 per person, or hike the Laguna Madre Nature Trail to spot exotic birds. The city also hosts free fireworks displays every Thursday and Friday night.

Midwestern Charm: Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City, Michigan, offers a similar experience to the Hamptons, but at a much lower cost. The beaches in Traverse City are stunning, and despite being a popular vacation spot for Midwesterners, it remains relatively inexpensive.

In addition to the beach, visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, cycling, and kayaking at Sleeping Bear Dunes and inland lakes. Traverse City is known as the Cherry Capital of the World, so be sure to visit local farms for cherry picking and free cherry tastings. While Airbnbs tend to book up quickly, you can still find campgrounds and motels, especially if you book early. Most restaurants and beaches are within walking distance, and you can find affordable food options at food trucks and small cafes.

Tips to Save Money on Your Trip

Here are a few tips to make your affordable domestic travel even more budget-friendly:

• Use a Travel Credit Card: Travel credit cards are excellent for earning points and miles that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and rental cars.
• Compare Airports: Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare prices at nearby airports. Flying into a different airport can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.
• Travel with Budget Airlines: As long as you’re mindful of potential fees, budget airlines can be a great way to save money on airfare.
• Cut Rental Car Costs: Comparison sites like AutoSlash and Kayak can help you find less expensive car rentals. Avoid airport pickup locations and skip extras like GPS, roadside assistance, and insurance (as many credit cards provide coverage).
• Get a National Parks Pass: For just $80 per year, the America the Beautiful Pass grants access to hundreds of national parks, monuments, and historic sites.