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Traveling on a budget doesn't mean you have to miss out on beautiful and exciting destinations. Here are ten affordable summer travel spots in the U.S. that offer great attractions and affordable dining options.
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture. The city offers something for everyone; enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. We recommend visiting during the summer months, so you have great weather while you explore Asheville’s natural beauty and lively downtown area.
Key Attractions:
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Known as "America's Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning views, hiking trails, and picnic spots. It’s perfect for a scenic drive or a day of hiking, picnicking, or searching for waterfalls.
- Biltmore Estate: Visit the largest privately-owned home in America, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century. The estate features magnificent gardens, a winery, a variety of art exhibits, and a historic mansion.
- Downtown Asheville: Downtown Asheville is full of art galleries, boutiques, and street performers. Don’t miss the Friday night drum circle in Pritchard Park, or walk along the Asheville Urban Trail Scavenger Hunt to explore the city and learn more about the city’s history.
Affordable Eats:
- White Duck Taco Shop: This local favorite offers a variety of creative and affordable tacos, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. It has three different locations in Asheville, and all are pet friendly!
- 12 Bones Smokehouse & Brewing: Known for its mouth-watering BBQ, 12 Bones offers hearty portions at reasonable prices. You can enjoy brisket specials on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and don’t forget to try out a house-made beer while you are there.
2. Austin, Texas
Austin, the “Live Music Capital of the World”, is a city that knows how to have fun. With a rich cultural scene, beautiful parks, and a vibrant nightlife, Austin offers plenty to do without breaking the bank.
Key Attractions:
- Barton Springs Pool: This three-acre natural spring-fed pool is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing, and is enjoyed by tourists and locals alike. The water remains a refreshing 68-70 degrees year-round, and has ample grassy areas to set down your towels and get some sun.
- Lady Bird Lake: Make your way to Lady Bird Lake, which is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a leisurely walk along the shoreline. The lake is a central feature of Austin's outdoor scene, and has numerous spots where you can rent watercrafts to enjoy a day on the water.
- South Congress Avenue: SoCo is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and live music venues, and is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Austin’s unique vibe. Just south of Lady Bird Lake, you can come to South Congress Avenue and grab dinner at the locals’ favorite restaurants!
Affordable Eats:
- Torchy’s Tacos: Famous for its inventive and delicious tacos, Torchy’s is a go-to spot for budget-friendly dining. According to this Buzzfeed Article, there is nowhere on earth that is better to get a taco!
- Franklin Barbecue: Another place that serves some of the best food in the world, Franklin Barbecue’s renowned brisket is worth every minute of the line you may need to wait in. Franklin’s should be at the top of your list if you are looking for a traditional Texan barbecue spot.
3. Portland, Oregon
Portland’s reputation as a quirky, eco-friendly city with a thriving food scene makes it a great summer destination. Portland has something for everyone - beautiful parks, farmers markets, hiking, and unique shops and bookstores.
Key Attractions:
- Washington Park: This 410-acre park is home to the International Rose Test Garden, the Oregon Zoo, and miles of trails. It’s a beautiful spot to spend the day exploring, and you will likely need more than one day to see everything.
- Powell’s City of Books: Powell’s City of Books is the largest independent bookstore in the world, and is a haven for book lovers. You could easily spend hours browsing its extensive collection, with 10 different rooms in the store, each with its own theme (including a rare book room).
- Accessible Hiking: Portland boasts expansive hiking trails, and those in the Columbia River Gorge specifically have many ADA accessible options. Check out the link for more information!
Affordable Eats:
- Pine State Biscuits: Pine State Biscuits was opened by a band of brothers from North Carolina, opening a restaurant after gaining mass popularity at the farmers markets in Portland. The restaurant is known for its traditional biscuits and the many creative ways they are dressed up. You may have to wait in a line for this one, but we promise it’s worth the wait!
- Nong’s Khao Man Gai: If you are looking to expand your tastes while on your trip, Nong’s Khao Man Gai is the place to go. It’s best known for its traditional Thai chicken and rice (which Eater declares was life changing), but offers other variants of the popular meal, if chicken isn’t your thing.
4. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s charm lies in its historic streets, beautiful squares, and Southern hospitality. The city’s laid-back vibe and picturesque scenery make it an excellent summer destination.
Key Attractions:
- Forsyth Park: This iconic park, with its grand fountain modeled after the fountains in Paris at the Place de la Concorde, its many musicians lining the pathways, and locals enjoying the sun, is like something out of a movie. Be sure you make time for a stroll on your trip!
- River Street: Lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants, River Street offers a scenic view of the Savannah River and a taste of the city’s history. Make sure you check their website before you visit, so you don’t miss out on any fun events they may have going on during your stay!
- Tybee Island: If you have time, make your way to Tybee Island, which is only a few minutes from downtown Savannah. Explore the beautiful beaches, climb a life tower, visit an old fort from the American Civil War, and finish off the day at one of the many restaurants or ice cream shops.
Affordable Eats:
- Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room: Enjoy an incredibly unique experience at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, which serves true Southern style comfort food served family-style in the dining room of an old boarding house.
- Zunzi’s: Zunzi’s blends all the flavors of the founders’ roots - South African, Swiss, Italian, and Dutch. Their colorful venue and delicious sandwiches are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
5. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe, with its rich history and vibrant arts scene, is a cultural hub in the Southwest. Its distinctive adobe architecture and stunning landscapes make it a beautiful place to explore.
Key Attractions:
- Santa Fe Plaza: The Santa Fe Plaza is the heart of the city, and is surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and galleries. It’s also home to the oldest church in the United States, and the Palace of the Governors, which is now filled with restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and other shops.
- Meow Wolf: An immersive and interactive art installation, Meow Wolf is a must-see for art lovers and families alike - but don’t get confused, it’s not your average art gallery. The building has 70 different rooms, decorated by local artists, and is one of the most popular attractions in Santa Fe.
- Canyon Road: Known for its many art galleries and studios (over 100 shops!), Canyon Road is perfect for an afternoon of browsing and appreciating local art. After strolling down the street of artwork from all over the United States, grab a bite to eat at some of the local restaurants.
Affordable Eats:
- The Shed: Offering traditional New Mexican cuisine, The Shed is famous for its red and green chile dishes. If you fall in love with the chile sauces, you can buy a jar and bring it home with you as an edible souvenir for your trip.
- Tia Sophia’s: Great for breakfast and lunch, this spot serves up classic New Mexican dishes and is a beloved restaurant in Santa Fe. Nick, the owner, is passionate about keeping the tradition of New Mexican food alive, and makes sure all of the meals served in his restaurant are flavor packed and delicious.
6. Bozeman, Montana
Bozeman is a gateway to outdoor adventures. With its stunning natural beauty and vibrant downtown, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking for a laid-back summer getaway.
Key Attractions:
- Museum of the Rockies: Home to one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the U.S., the Museum of the Rockies is considered a Smithsonian Affiliate, and is a natural history museum with ever-changing exhibits.
- Custer Gallatin National Forest: You don’t have to leave Bozeman to get a taste of the Greater Yellowstone area! Explore Custer Gallatin National Forest through scenic hikes or drives, but don’t forget to check the website for seasonal information before heading over.
- Downtown Bozeman: Filled with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, downtown Bozeman has a lively yet relaxed atmosphere for a stroll. Their website has great resources, including maps of the area and suggestions for things to do!
Affordable Eats:
- Nova Café: This popular spot in Downtown Bozeman offers delicious breakfast and brunch options, including great vegan and gluten free options. They have comfort food and globally inspired dishes, sure to satisfy anybody who goes.
- Montana Ale Works: Known for its craft beers and comfort food, Montana Ale Works provides a great dining experience and is the most award-winning restaurant in Bozeman. They pride themselves on supporting the farmers, artisans, ranchers, brewers and distillers of Bozeman, so their food is delicious and eco-conscious.
7. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s historic charm and coastal beauty make it a top summer destination. The city’s well-preserved architecture, lush gardens, and rich history provide plenty of opportunities for exploration.
Key Attractions:
- Charleston Museum: Visit the oldest museum in America with a wide range of exhibits spanning from natural history to the history of the South Carolina Lowcountry.
- Waterfront Park: Waterfront Park is the perfect place to go for a leisurely stroll (or a run!) around the beautiful shaded pathways. The park is also home to the iconic Pineapple Fountain, and offers lovely views of the harbor.
- Magnolia Plantation & Gardens: Explore one of America’s oldest public gardens, known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. You can also take different types of tours on the property, such as a tour of the Magnolia House, a Nature Train Tour, and a “From Freedom to Slavery” tour.
Affordable Eats:
- The Griffon: Griffon was voted one of the best bars in the South and is loved by many locals for its super affordable prices and extensive beer list.
- Hannibal’s Soul Kitchen: Hannibal’s has perfected the Gullah cuisine and offers delicious seafood and soul foods with a rich, authentic Lowcountry taste.
8. San Diego, California
San Diego offers sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and a laid-back vibe. It’s a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Key Attractions:
- Balboa Park: Home to numerous museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park is a cultural hub in the heart of the city. The gardens and most of the museums are free to explore, and their website has plenty of information about how you can best explore the 1,200 acre park.
- La Jolla Cove: Known for its stunning coastline and marine life, La Jolla Cove is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the beach. La Jolla Cove is one of the most photographed beaches in Southern California, has crystal clear waters, and is protected by the Underwater Park Ecological Reserve.
- Old Town San Diego: This historic area offers a glimpse into the city’s past with museums, shops, and authentic Mexican restaurants. The Old Town hosts a vibrant Cinco de Mayo celebration that is a must do if you are in the area at the time.
Affordable Eats:
- Lucha Libre Taco Shop: Lucha Libre is well-loved for its funky, colorful interior and out-of-the-box taco ideas — the brothers who opened the shop brought in old family recipes to create great quality Mexican food.
- Milo’s Pizza: Milo’s Pizza is popular among college students for their delicious NYC style pizza and great slice deals.
9. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, with its rich musical heritage and lively atmosphere, is a city that knows how to entertain. From its honky-tonk bars to its historical landmarks, Nashville offers plenty of affordable fun.
Key Attractions:
- Country Music Hall of Fame: A must-visit for music lovers, this museum showcases the history and legends of country music. Its exhibits demonstrate how dedicated the museum is to preserving the history of country music and understanding where it’s going.
- The Parthenon: A full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon stands in the middle of Centennial Park, with a 42 foot statue replica of Athena to go with it.
- Broadway: The Broadway Historic District is famous for its honky-tonk bars, live music venues, shopping, and restaurants. Its iconic neon signs and vibrant nightlife are a must-see for anyone traveling to Nashville.
Affordable Eats:
- Hattie B’s Hot Chicken: Try Nashville’s famous hot chicken at Hattie B’s, which has delicious meals and hearty southern sides.
- The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden: Almost everything served at the Pharmacy is handmade in-house (including their famous sausages!), and is known to be one of the must-sees of East Nashville.
10. Denver, Colorado
Denver, with its stunning mountain backdrop and thriving cultural scene, is a fantastic summer destination. The city offers a mix of outdoor activities and urban attractions that are perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Key Attractions:
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre: In addition to its iconic concert venue, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre also has a variety of hiking and biking trails in the park, as well as a visitor center, a historical trading post, and a Hall of Fame that visitors can walk around and explore.
- Golden Triangle Creative District: The Golden Triangle Creative District has over 30 art galleries and studios, 25,000 square feet of flower gardens at the Civic Park, and tons of restaurants to grab a bite while you walk around and explore the public art exhibits.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: While this destination is a bit outside Denver (1.5 hours drive), no list of things to do in Colorado without visiting the Rockies. Voted one of the best trips in the world in 2014 by National Geographic, the 415 square miles of national park is a bucket list item for many outdoor enthusiasts.
Affordable Eats:
- Sam’s No. 3: This classic American diner has been in business since 1927 - plenty of time to master its extensive menu. There is something on the menu for everyone, and don’t forget to try one of their milkshakes!
- Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs: Try this Denver staple, which has hot dogs made with exotic game meats (and just regular hot dogs!), in their restaurant, concession stands, or food carts.
These destinations offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and affordable dining options, perfect for a summer trip without breaking the bank. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, historic charm, or vibrant city life, these locations have something to offer every traveler. Happy travels!
