The United States is home to a wide variety of travel destinations, from bustling cities to stunning natural wonders. And while some of these destinations can be expensive, there are plenty of affordable options available. Here are 10 of the best cheap summer travel locations in the US:

San Diego, California

San Diego is a great option for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The city has something to offer everyone, from its beautiful beaches to its world-famous theme parks. And while San Diego can be expensive, there are plenty of ways to save money. Here are a few tips:

  • Stay in a hostel or Airbnb instead of a hotel.
  • Pack your own meals instead of eating out.
  • Take advantage of free activities, such as hiking in Balboa Park or visiting the San Diego Zoo.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks is a long stretch of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. It’s a popular destination for beach lovers, but there’s more to do here than just sunbathe and swim. Here are a few ideas for activities:

  • Go fishing or crabbing.
  • Take a surfing lesson.
  • Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial.
  • Go for a walk or bike ride along the beach.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is a mountain town located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a popular tourist destination, but there are plenty of ways to save money here. Here are a few tips:

  • Stay in a cabin or campground instead of a hotel.
  • Pack your own meals instead of eating out.
  • Take advantage of free activities, such as hiking in the national park or visiting the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.

Denver, Colorado

Denver is the capital of Colorado and a great city to visit for its outdoor activities, vibrant culture, and delicious food. Here are a few ideas for activities that you can do for cheap:

  • Go hiking or biking in the Rocky Mountains.
  • Visit the Denver Art Museum.
  • Visit the world renowned Red Rocks Amphitheatre. It’s free to visit, but may close early when concerts are happening.
  • Go for a walk or bike ride along the Cherry Creek Trail.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a must-see for any nature lover. It’s home to geysers, hot springs, mudpots, and a variety of wildlife. Here are a few ideas for activities:

  • Go hiking to see Old Faithful.
  • Take a drive through the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
  • Go fishing in Yellowstone Lake.
  • Go for a walk or bike ride along the Lamar Valley.

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US. It’s a vast canyon carved by the Colorado River and offers stunning views. Here are a few ideas for activities:

  • Hike down into the canyon.
  • Take a mule ride down into the canyon.
  • Go rafting on the Colorado River.
  • Go for a walk or bike ride along the rim of the canyon.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is a historic city with a lot to offer visitors. It’s home to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and a variety of other historical landmarks. Here are a few ideas for activities:

  • Visit Independence Hall.
  • See the Liberty Bell.
  • Take a walk through Independence National Historical Park.
  • Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Moab, Utah

Moab is a small town located in the heart of Utah’s red rock country. It’s a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing. Here are a few ideas for activities:

  • Go hiking in Arches National Park.
  • Go biking in Canyonlands National Park.
  • Go rock climbing in Indian Creek.
  • Go for a walk or bike ride along the Colorado River.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is a peninsula located in Massachusetts. It’s a popular destination for beach lovers, but there’s more to do here than just sunbathe and swim. Here are a few ideas for activities:

  • Go fishing or crabbing.
  • Take a surfing lesson.
  • Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore.
  • Go for a walk or bike ride along the beach.

These are just a few of the many great cheap summer travel locations in the US. With a little planning, you can have a fun and affordable vacation without breaking the bank.