I can’t believe it’s already time to start thinking about summer vacation! As March rolls around, my family and I start talking about summer vacation ideas, and planning out all the places we want to go this season!
Summer is the perfect time to travel, and there are so many destinations in America that make great summer vacation ideas whether you’re looking for beaches, national parks, or vibrant cities. If you’re planning your summer 2025 getaway and need some summer vacation ideas, this post has you covered!
Here is my list of 10 affordable summer vacation ideas that provide budget-friendly accommodations, delicious cheap eats, and many summer activities for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you want to hike through national parks, laze around on the beach, stroll along historic streets, or enjoy the art scene – this list has something for you! Plus, I’ve included transportation options, best spots for cheap eats, and free things to do in each city to help you plan an epic trip!
Let’s get started!
Summer Vacation Ideas
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Views along the Blue Ridge Parkway
One of my fondest road trip memories is when my family and I went to the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s such a hidden gem, very peaceful, and the perfect destination to unwind! Asheville is an eclectic town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains that is known for its vibrant music scene, craft breweries, and scenic hiking trails. If you’re looking for relaxing summer vacation ideas for the whole family to enjoy, you need to check out Asheville & the Blue Ridge Mountains!
Getting Around
- Public Transit – Asheville Rides (bus service)
- Biking: Bike share programs, lots of bike-friendly areas
- Walking: Downtown Asheville is walkable, but you will need a car to get around otherwise
Cheap Eats
- Moose Cafe – delicious comfort Southern food
- Biscuit Head – homemade biscuits & gravy
- White Duck Taco Shop – taqueria selling yummy tacos!
Free Things to Do
- Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway for stunning scenic views
- Go hiking – there’s so many trails surrounding Asheville!
- Walk around Downtown Asheville & browse the unique shops, murals, and local art galleries
- Check out the River Arts District – visit the many working artist studios and galleries here
2. San Diego, California
San Diego coastline
There’s no doubt that California can be an expensive place to visit, but there’s actually plenty of free activities & cheap eats you can find in San Diego! From the historic Gaslamp Quarter to the famous Balboa Park, the city offers plenty of activities that won’t break the bank. Plus, its Mexican food scene is top-notch, with affordable tacos and burritos at every turn.
Getting Around
- Public Transit – San Diego Trolley, buses (MTS)
- Biking – Bike share programs (Motiv) and bike-friendly paths
- Walking: Some walkable neighborhoods like Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town, but may need a car to get around the various neighborhoods
Cheap Eats:
- The Taco Stand – absolutely delicious made-to-order tacos!
- Empanada Kitchen – a variety of empanadas – great for on the go bites!
- Donut Bar & Bakery – freshly made donuts that are to die for
Free Things To Do:
- Seal watching at La Jolla Cove – this was our favorite activity in San Diego!
- Stroll along the Pacific Beach boardwalk
- Explore the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park – this was such a fun & unique activity!
- Catch sunset views at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
- Visit Balboa Park
3. Portland, Oregon
A view of Downtown Portland
Portland is a paradise for budget travelers, offering free outdoor activities and an unbeatable food truck scene! The city’s eco-friendly culture and abundance of parks make it a fantastic addition to your summer vacation ideas list. While Portland may have a reputation for being a bit pricier in some areas, there are many budget-friendly activities and free things to do, especially in the summer when the weather is beautiful.
Getting Around
- Public Transit – TriMet buses, MAX light rail, and Portland Streetcar
- Biking – Bike share (Biketown) and numerous bike lanes
- Walking: Downtown Portland is compact and pedestrian-friendly
Cheap Eats:
- Cartopia Food Carts – one of Portland’s famous food cart pods with many cuisines to choose from!
- Pine Street Market – a bustling food hall with a variety of eateries
- Cuon Vietnamese Street Food – the best of Vietnamese street food
Free Things To Do:
- Stroll around Washington Park – large park with gardens, trails, and beautiful views
- Powells’ City of Books – one of the largest independent bookstores in the world
- McCall Waterfront Park – riverfront park perfect for walking, biking, or enjoying a picnic
- Enjoy the Portland Saturday market – outdoor arts & crafts market open on weekends
4. Denver, Colorado
Breathtaking views of the Colorado Rocky Mountains
With easy access to the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a great summer vacation destination for outdoor enthusiasts & nature lovers. Colorado itself is often seen at the top of the summer vacation ideas list because of all the free things to do here. Summer is the perfect time for hiking, brewery hopping, and enjoying Denver’s vibrant outdoor scene. Plus, there are a lot of great dining options & free activities here!
Getting Around
- Public Transit – RTD buses, light rail, and commuter rail (to the airport)
- Biking – Bike share (Denver B-cycle) and bike lanes; electric scooters are also available
- Walking: Walkable downtown area with parks, shopping, and dining
Cheap Eats:
- Sam’s No. 3 – classic, cozy diner with big portions & affordable prices
- Torchy’s Tacos – street tacos & Mexican fare
- Little Owl Coffee – Denver has a great coffee culture, so try an espresso drink while you’re here!
Free Things To Do:
- Visit the Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre – free to enter on non-event days!
- Drive to the Rocky Mountain State Park – the park has an admission fee, but the views along the drive are also beautiful!
- Admire the views from Lookout Mountain – amazing panoramic views of the city, plains, and surrounding mountains
- Explore City Park within the city of Denver
- Stroll through Union Station – an iconic landmark and a lovely place to wander around
5. Charleston, South Carolina
Rainbow Row historic homes in Charleston
Charleston’s charming cobblestone streets, historic homes, and waterfront views make it an ideal summer retreat! There is so much for everyone to do here – from art lovers to history buffs to nature lovers! The city offers rich history, gorgeous beaches, and delicious Southern cuisine at affordable prices. Click here to get my full 1-day Charleston itinerary (plus a PDF that you can easily download or print!)
Getting Around
- Public Transit – CARTA buses, free DASH shuttle that will take you through downtown
- Biking – Bike rentals and bike-friendly routes
- Walking: Historic downtown Charleston is very walkable!
Cheap Eats:
- Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit – delicious warm, flaky, buttery biscuits & cozy Southern fare!
- A.W. Shuck’s Seafood Shack – seafood dishes at affordable prices
- Black Door Cafe – yummy espresso drinks, pastries, & breakfast sandwiches with a great seating area
Free Things To Do:
- Walk along Rainbow Row to admire pastel-painted historic homes
- Stroll along historic downtown Charleston cobblestone streets
- Take photos at the Pineapple Fountain located at the Waterfront Park
- Ride the free DASH shuttle that will take you through Downtown Charleston
- If you have a car, you can drive to Folly Beach & Sullivan’s Island for beachfront views
- Check out my blog post for more free things to check out in Charleston!
6. New Orleans, Louisiana
The bustling French Quarter in New Orleans
While New Orleans is best known for its Mardi Gras parade, it’s also a great place to add to your list of summer vacation ideas! There is so much to do in this vibrant city, including many free activities and affordable spots to try out delicious Cajun food! Be sure to enjoy some jazz music and beignets while you’re here!
Getting Around
- Public Transit – New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (NORTA) buses, streetcars
- Biking – Bike share (Blue Bikes New Orleans)
- Walking: We found NOLA to be very walkable!
Cheap Eats:
- Cafe Du Monde – a must-try when you’re in New Orleans! An iconic spot for beignets & chicory coffee!
- Cafe Beignet – another great spot for coffee & beignets!
- Daisy Dukes French Quarter – an affordable spot for quality Cajun food in French Quarter
- Daisy Mae’s Southern Fried Chicken & Breakfast – the name says it all!
Free Things To Do:
- Explore French Quarter & admire the historic architecture, colorful buildings, and lively street music
- Walk down Bourbon Street – this famous street features many street performances and unique architecture
- Walk along the Mississippi Riverfront – scenic path along the river where you can enjoy views of the riverboats
- Listen to a free jazz/blues performance – find these in the French Quarter, Frenchmen Street, & Jackson Square
- Explore the French market
7. Nashville, Tennessee
The bustling streets of Downtown Nashville
Nashville is such an underrated city! When I visited with my friends a few years ago, we had such a fun time. Nashville is known best for its vibrant music scene and there are many affordable places for visitors to enjoy free live music! It is also full of historic sites & budget-friendly Southern comfort food. For nature lovers, there’s many parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy.
Getting Around
- Public Transit – Nashville MTA buses, Music City Star commuter rail
- Biking – Bike share (BCycle)
- Walking: Downtown Nashville, especially around Broadway, is walkable
Cheap Eats:
- Rise Southern Biscuits – absolutely delicious biscuits!
- Sun Diner – enjoy cozy breakfast dishes in a music-themed venue
- Hattie B’s Hot Chicken – a great spot for fried chicken sandwiches & hot chicken!
- Jack’s Bar-B-Que – enjoy iconic Southern BBQ dishes at affordable prices!
Free Things To Do:
- Walk around Centennial Park
- Explore Broadway Street (Honky Tonk Highway) – known for its honky-tonk bars, live music, and vibrant atmosphere
- Listen to live country music at a honky-tonk bar
- Walk down the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge – features great views of the city!
- Check out free street art & murals in the 12 South neighborhood
8. Savannah, Georgia
Sun-soaked streets of Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is another underrated city that is a must-add to your summer vacation ideas list! Similar to Charleston, this city combines historic charm, cobblestone streets, and moss-draped oak trees which makes it a very picturesque summer getaway. You will also find scenic riverfront views and affordable Southern cuisine here!
Getting Around
- Public Transit – Chatham Area Transit (CAT) buses
- Biking – Bike rentals and bike-friendly streets
- Walking: Savannah’s Historic District is perfect for walking tours Broadway, is walkable
Cheap Eats:
- Debi’s Restaurant – a great spot for Southern comfort food
- Zunzi’s – great sandwich spot with an outdoor patio
- Treylor Park – creative Southern dishes in a trendy spot
Free Things To Do:
- Explore Forsyth Park and take a photo by the iconic Forsyth fountain
- Walk along River Street – a historic cobblestone street lined with shops, galleries, cafes, and a scenic riverfront
- Check out Chippewa Square – famous for the bench in Forrest Gump
- Visit the City Market – you can also often find free street performances here!
- Bonaventure Cemetary – a famous cemetery known for its beautiful sculptures, historic graves, and lush surroundings
- Drive to Tybee Beach – a public beach that’s just a short drive from Savannah
- Admire the (giant!) oak trees throughout the city
9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is the perfect summer getaway for history buffs and foodies alike. There’s many free attractions from the Liberty Bell to scenic parks. Plus, this city is fairly easy to get to by car, train, or air. This is one of my favorite spots for a weekend getaway or even a day trip if you live close-by!
Getting Around
- Public Transit – SEPTA buses, subway, and regional rail
- Biking – Indego bike share system
- Walking: Extremely walkable city
Cheap Eats:
- Oh Brother Philly – get an iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich here!
- Dalessandro’s Steaks & Hoagies – another iconic spot for Philly cheesesteaks
- Reading Terminal Market – a food court with many great dining options
- Cafe La Maude – Mediterranean-inspired brunch spot
- Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House – delicious & budget-friendly Asian food!
Free Things To Do:
- Visit the Liberty Bell
- Explore Independence Hall, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence & US Constitution ($1 admission)
- Stroll through Rittenhouse Square
- Check out Reading Terminal Market
- Take a scenic bike ride along the Schuylkill River Trail
- Take a self-guided tour of over 3,000 public murals in the city
- Walk through Washington Square & Franklin Square
10. Boston, Massachusetts
Beautiful view of the Boston Harbor & skyline
New England is an iconic summer vacation spot, especially around the Boston area. Boston is a city filled with history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods, and there are plenty of free things to do here! The city is also the gateway to other picturesque summer getaway spots like Maine and Cape Cod.
Getting Around
- Public Transit – MBTA (the “T” system) subway, buses, and commuter rail
- Biking – Bluebikes bike share system
- Walking: Very walkable city!
Cheap Eats:
- Galleria Umberto – delicious slices of Sicilian pizza
- James Hook & Co – enjoy a lobster roll or lobster bisque with beautiful views
- Gene’s Chinese Flatbread Cafe – budget-friendly Asian cuisine
- Mike’s City Diner – easygoing American 50’s style diner
Free Things To Do:
- Walk the Freedom Trail – a 2.5-mile historic trail that takes you through many iconic sites
- Explore Boston Common – the oldest public park in America!
- Copley Square & the Boston Public Library
- Explore Boston’s North End neighborhood – delicious bakeries and historical landmarks
- Scenic walk along Boston Harborwalk – great views of the harbor, the city skyline
- Take a free self-guided tour of Harvard University in nearby Cambridge
- Admire nature in the Arnold Arboretum
I hope you found this blog post inspirational, and found some summer vacation ideas for this year! As always, I’d love to hear from you – drop me a comment below and share your favorite summer vacation destinations!
Looking for more summer vacation ideas? Check out my list of free budget-friendly travel itineraries!
Check out more budget-friendly travel tips + ideas here!
