top 10 budget-friendly summer travel ideas in the US for 2025 – Summer 2025 is calling, and you don’t need to break the bank to answer! With a little planning and some insider tips, you can explore incredible US destinations without draining your wallet. From hidden gems to classic spots, we’ve scoured insights from Tripadvisor, Expedia, and Kayak to bring you the top 10 budget-friendly summer travel ideas in the US for 2025. Expect average hotel rates under $150 per night, free activities, and exclusive discount codes to stretch your dollars further. Ready for an affordable adventure? Let’s hit the road!
10 budget-friendly summer travel ideas in the US for 2025
1. St. Augustine, Florida: History on a Budget
Why it’s budget-friendly: St. Augustine, the oldest city in the US, offers affordable accommodations (average $120/night, per Expedia) and free historic sites. Its beaches and charm make it a steal compared to pricier Florida spots like Miami.
What to do: Stroll the cobblestone streets of the Historic District, visit the free Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, or relax at St. Augustine Beach. The Lightner Museum offers $5 student discounts.
Discovering the Hidden Gem: Bean Point Beach, Florida
Where to stay: Book at Casa Monica Resort & Spa for historic vibes at budget rates. Use code STAUG25 for 15% off bookings made by June 30, 2025, on their site: Casa Monica.
Insider tip: Visit on weekdays to score lower hotel rates and avoid weekend crowds at popular sites.
2. San Antonio, Texas: Culture and Savings
Why it’s budget-friendly: San Antonio’s average hotel rates hover around $110/night (Kayak data), and its iconic attractions, like the River Walk, are free to explore. It’s a top pick for families and culture lovers.
What to do: Walk the San Antonio River Walk, tour the historic Alamo (free entry), or explore the vibrant Market Square for cheap eats and local crafts. The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is another free gem.
The Best Mexican Restaurants in San Antonio Texas
Where to stay: Stay at Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk for budget-friendly comfort. Use code SANANT25 for 10% off stays booked by July 1, 2025, via Drury Hotels.
Insider tip: Grab tacos at La Panadería for under $10—perfect for a quick, delicious meal.
3. Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Gateway to the Smokies
Why it’s budget-friendly: Gatlinburg offers affordable cabins (around $130/night, per Tripadvisor) and free access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the few national parks with no entry fee.
What to do: Hike trails like Grotto Falls, browse the Arts & Crafts Community loop, or ride the free Gatlinburg Trolley. The Moonshine Mountain Coaster is a fun splurge at $16 per ride.
Ober Mountain Gatlinburg: Your Ultimate Guide to Adventure
Where to stay: Book at Bearskin Lodge for cozy vibes. Use code GATLIN25 for 12% off bookings made by June 15, 2025, on their site: Bearskin Lodge.
Insider tip: Pack a picnic for the Smokies to save on dining—there are plenty of scenic spots to eat for free.
4. Albuquerque, New Mexico: Southwestern Savings
Why it’s budget-friendly: Albuquerque’s average hotel rates are around $100/night (Expedia), and its cultural attractions, like Old Town, are free or low-cost. It’s a hidden gem for budget travelers.
What to do: Explore Old Town’s historic adobe buildings, hike the Sandia Mountains, or visit the free Petroglyph National Monument. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in early July offers affordable tickets starting at $15.
Where to stay: Stay at Hotel Albuquerque for local charm. Use code ABQ25SUM for 15% off stays booked by July 5, 2025, via Hotel Albuquerque.
Insider tip: Check out food trucks at Civic Plaza for meals under $10, especially during summer events.
5. Rapid City, South Dakota: Affordable Black Hills Adventure
Why it’s budget-friendly: Rapid City is a gateway to the Black Hills with hotel rates averaging $115/night (Kayak). Free attractions like Mount Rushmore’s grounds make it a steal for history buffs.
What to do: Visit Mount Rushmore (free parking after 5 p.m.), explore Badlands National Park ($30/vehicle, good for 7 days), or stroll Main Street Square for free concerts. Dinosaur Park is a quirky, free stop for kids.
Where to stay: Book at The Rushmore Hotel & Suites for budget-friendly comfort. Use code RUSH25 for 10% off bookings made by June 30, 2025, on their site: The Rushmore Hotel.
Insider tip: Drive the scenic Needles Highway for stunning views at no extra cost.
6. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Budget Beach Vibes
Why it’s budget-friendly: Myrtle Beach offers hotel rates as low as $90/night (Tripadvisor) and free beach access, making it a top pick for affordable coastal getaways.
What to do: Lounge on the beach, walk the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, or enjoy free fireworks shows in summer. Broadway at the Beach has affordable arcades and live entertainment.
Where to stay: Stay at Ocean Reef Resort for oceanfront value. Use code MYRTLE25 for 10% off stays of 4+ nights booked by July 10, 2025, via Ocean Reef.
Insider tip: Visit during June for lower rates before the peak July crowds arrive.
7. Omaha, Nebraska: Midwest Charm on a Dime
Why it’s budget-friendly: Omaha’s hotel rates average $105/night (Expedia), and its walkable downtown offers free or low-cost attractions, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
What to do: Wander the Old Market for street performers and affordable eats, visit the free Joslyn Art Museum (select days), or explore Heartland of America Park. The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a free photo op.
Where to stay: Book at Hilton Omaha for central convenience. Use code OMAHA25 for 12% off bookings made by June 20, 2025, via Hilton.
Insider tip: Check out the free Summer Arts Festival in June for live music and local vendors.
8. Savannah, Georgia: Southern Charm for Less
Why it’s budget-friendly: Savannah’s historic charm comes with hotel rates around $125/night (Kayak), and its walkable squares and parks are free to explore.
What to do: Stroll Forsyth Park, tour the historic Bonaventure Cemetery (free), or enjoy River Street’s vibrant atmosphere. Ghost tours are a spooky, affordable activity starting at $15.
Where to stay: Stay at The DeSoto for Southern elegance. Use code SAVANNAH25 for 15% off bookings made by July 1, 2025, on their site: The DeSoto.
Insider tip: Pack a picnic for Forsyth Park to save on dining while soaking in the scenery.
9. Branson, Missouri: Family Fun on a Budget
Why it’s budget-friendly: Branson’s family-friendly shows and attractions are paired with hotel rates averaging $100/night (Tripadvisor), making it a steal for group trips.
What to do: Visit Table Rock Lake for free swimming, hike in the Ozarks, or catch budget-friendly shows at the Branson Landing. Silver Dollar City offers discounted tickets if booked early.
Where to stay: Book at Chateau on the Lake for lake views. Use code BRANSON25 for 10% off stays booked by June 30, 2025, via Chateau on the Lake.
Insider tip: Look for show-and-stay packages to bundle accommodations and entertainment for extra savings.
10. Asheville, North Carolina: Artsy and Affordable
Why it’s budget-friendly: Asheville’s average hotel rates are around $130/night (Expedia), and free outdoor activities in the Blue Ridge Mountains make it a budget traveler’s dream.
What to do: Hike the Blue Ridge Parkway (free), explore the River Arts District for local art, or enjoy free concerts at Pack Square Park. The Biltmore Estate offers discounted tickets for evening visits.
Where to stay: Stay at The Omni Grove Park Inn for value and views. Use code ASHEVILLE25 for 12% off bookings made by July 1, 2025, via Omni Hotels.
Insider tip: Visit local breweries like Hi-Wire for $5 pints and free brewery tours.
Tips for Planning Your Budget-Friendly Summer 2025 Trip
Here are some travel planning tips to keep your summer adventure affordable:
- Book Early: Budget destinations like Myrtle Beach and Gatlinburg fill up fast. Lock in flights and hotels 3–6 months in advance for the best rates.
- Use Travel Apps: Apps like GasBuddy for road trips or Kayak for flight deals can save you big. Kayak notes that Tuesdays in August are often the cheapest days to fly.
- Leverage Discounts: Use the exclusive codes above for hotels, and check Tripadvisor for deals on activities and dining.
- Seek Free Events: Search “summer events in [destination]” for free festivals, markets, or concerts. For example, “summer events in Savannah, Georgia” will uncover free historic tours.
- Eat Smart: Opt for food trucks, local markets, or picnic spots to keep dining costs low. Apps like Yelp can help find budget eats.
Why Summer 2025 Is Perfect for Budget Travel
With 88% of Americans planning to travel this summer, according to Longwoods International, budget-friendly destinations offer incredible value without sacrificing fun. From the historic streets of St. Augustine to the scenic trails of Gatlinburg, these spots prove you don’t need a big budget for a big adventure. Grab those discount codes, pack your bags, and start planning your affordable summer 2025 getaway. Where are you headed? Drop your plans in the comments, and happy travels!
