The United States is filled with cities and destinations as varied as the country’s landscape. The All-American road trip has become a classic adventure for many a traveler. Traveling by car is a great way to take in as many sights as possible. Better yet, it can be an inexpensive way to vacation, especially if traveling with others who can help share costs. Here are some affordable vacation ideas to consider when it comes time to start planning the next getaway.
Be a local tourist
Many people are guilty of living in a city for years and never seeing its local tourist sights. Consider a staycation and become a local tourist. Check into a hotel, hostel, or shared home for a weekend to get away from the comforts and distractions of home. Set out each day and start exploring the city from the perspective of a tourist. Most cities have a local tourism office that offers a city tourism pass. Use a city pass to see local attractions for free or discounted prices.
Take the LAN150 Challenge, Lansing’s ultimate bucket list of attractions. The Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau encourages locals and visitors to discover the essence of downtown Pure Michigan. Explore an urban destination of dining, craft cocktails, micro-breweries, live music, attractions, and vibrant art districts.
Become a house sitter
Accommodation is easily the biggest expense when traveling. To save money on this cost, look for somewhere to stay for free. Consider a home exchange or house sitting for someone away on vacation. This is a clever and unique way to explore a new place. Not only is accommodation free, but access to a kitchen means saving money on dining out. Best of all, house sitting can be done regionally which means less money spent on transportation.
Travel regionally
The term ‘vacation’ makes most people think of traveling far away to a destination outside of their home country. For something different that also doesn’t break the bank, explore the regions of the United States. With a little bit of research, it’s easy to find new destinations a few hours travel from one’s home base. Every region has cultural differences and history that made it unique. Being a stranger in one’s own country is a great way to learn more about it.
The Henry County Convention and Visitors Bureau welcomes anyone to experience the county’s tourism riches. History Has a Name explores the stories of the great minds and people who helped shape Henry County, GA. Learn the stories, ideas, and hard work behind the attractions that make Henry County unique.
Go to national parks
Getting in touch with the great outdoors is not only a healthy way to relax, but it’s also affordable. All it takes to go camping in national parks is camping supplies, groceries, and paying camping fees. If sleeping in a tent is not ideal, many parks have cabins. The US National Park Service was founded in 1916, and to date, there are 61 national parks throughout America. To see all these parks, from Alaska down to Florida, one needs to travel to 29 states and two US territories.
The park system has a total of 481 national park sites, but only 61 have the designation of “National Park.” Oregon has many a site for shore eyes. The Mill Casino Hotel & RV Park is surrounded by a dramatic coastline and beautiful beaches. Sunset Bay State Park, Shore Acres State Park, Cape Arago State Park, Horsfall Beach, and Lighthouse Beach are all a short distance from the casino and perfect destinations for day-long getaways.
